Recently Engaged? Here’s What to Do Next - From a Luxury Wedding Planner

Congratulations on your engagement!
you’re entering one of life’s most extraordinary chapters

As a luxury wedding planner, I understand that getting engaged is more than a moment — it’s the beginning of an experience. And when your engagement takes place in December — the heart of engagement season — you have an incredible opportunity to begin planning with intention, clarity, and access to the best the industry has to offer.

If you're newly engaged and wondering how to begin planning a celebration worthy of your story — this is for you.

December: The Season of Engagement — and Opportunity

More proposals take place between the end of november and New Year’s than at any other time of year. Known in the industry as engagement season, it marks a rare window when couples begin planning alongside family celebrations and winter retreats.

But it also means one thing:
Exceptional venues and world-class vendors begin to book out fast.

When you desire a celebration with elevated service, refined aesthetics, and a bespoke planning experience — timing is everything. The earlier you begin, the more options are available to you, and the more intentional your planning journey can be.

Newly Engaged? Here’s What You Should Prioritise First

Before diving into details and decisions, allow space to celebrate and reflect. Then, when you’re ready to begin, I recommend the following steps — informed by years of curating exclusive weddings for high-net-worth couples around the world.

1. Savor the Moment

This is a rare time in life — celebrate with champagne, a private dinner, or a quiet weekend away. Don’t rush.

2. Announce Your Engagement Thoughtfully

Whether through a formal engagement party, luxury stationery, or a carefully curated social announcement — make it intentional, and reflective of your style.

3. Begin Conversations Around Vision & Values

Instead of jumping straight into logistics, ask:

  • What kind of experience do we want to create for our guests?

  • What are our must-haves, and what can we do without?

  • Where in the world would we love to be — a private villa, a heritage estate, a historic property?

4. Partner With a Luxury Wedding Planner Early

A trusted planner will not only secure exclusive venues and top-tier creative partners, but also help you avoid missteps that can cost time, energy, and discretion.

My role is to protect your time, amplify your vision, and manage every layer of the experience from start to finish.

Why December Is the Perfect Time to Begin Planning a High-End Wedding

As a luxury wedding planner, I often advise couples to begin their planning during December for four key reasons:

  1. Access to Premier Dates & Properties
    High-end venues and in-demand vendors (think couture designers, floral artists, destination photographers) are booking 12–18 months in advance.

  2. Holiday Travel = Ideal Venue Scouting
    If you're already traveling during the holidays, it's the perfect time to view venues, schedule tastings, or meet with local vendors.

  3. Winter Engagement Sessions Are Exquisite
    Whether in the snow-covered Alps, a private estate, or an urban winter setting — your engagement photos can be a timeless keepsake.

  4. Luxury Brands Offer Private Consultations This Time of Year
    Many couture designers, stationers, and stylists offer private, by-appointment-only sessions during the holidays — take advantage of this quiet luxury.

Wedding Trends for 2026: Elevated, Experiential, and Personal

Couples in 2026 are prioritising quality, personalisation, and sensory experiences above all else. As your planner, I interpret trends through the lens of timeless design and thoughtful hospitality.

Here’s what we’re seeing emerge:

  • Architectural Florals & Installations
    Large-scale design moments that transform spaces without overwhelming them.

  • Curated Guest Experiences
    Multi-day destination celebrations with wellness moments, private chef dinners, and cultural immersion.

  • Heritage & Tradition, Reimagined
    Honouring family and cultural history in innovative ways.

  • Sustainable Luxury
    Local sourcing, re-usable decor, and carbon-conscious planning — without sacrificing elegance.

  • Colour as Signature
    Rich tones, layered textures, and fashion-inspired palettes that reflect your personality.

Let’s Curate an Exceptional Wedding Experience, Together

Every couple I work with shares one thing in common:
A desire to create a wedding that feels deeply personal — and utterly unforgettable.

Whether you envision:

  • A private estate in the South of France

  • A contemporary celebration in a sleek architectural space

  • A multi-day destination experience for your closest family and friends

…you deserve a partner who brings precision, taste, and poise to every step.

Now accepting a limited number of 2026/27 couples.
Discretion, full-service planning, and white-glove coordination are standard.

SCHEDULE Your COMPLIMENTARY Consultation

Let’s begin with a conversation. No pressure — simply an opportunity to listen, understand your vision, and explore how I can support you.

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Planning a Wedding in Autumn? Here’s How to Make It Magical