Congrats! You're Engaged! (Now What?)

Three paths—plus shortcuts to tackle the major tasks on your to-do list.

• Published Winter 2013

	Book it to City Hall Forget the venue searches, gown fittings, and stationery samples: Hightail it downtown.	Plan it all yourself Hunker down with your partner and prepare to obsess over linens, centerpieces, and who sits next to Grandpa.	Hire a Pro Write a few checks, attend tastings, and let the wedding planner handle the details.
12 – 9 Months		Create a budget with your partner and feel out your parents to see if they're chipping in Leaf through bridal mags and bookmark wedding blogs for inspiration Plot the initial guest list Set date and venue; You can't do one without the other. Decide if the ceremony and reception will take place at the same location. Book an officiant Lock in stationer Meet with caterers; In this town, you can take the traditional caterer route, consider a top-notch restaurant, or go completely off the grid. Start a registry!	Peruse wedding sites and note planners of weddings you adore Focus on dress search Set up meetings with top planning candidates Adjust budget to accommodate Hire a planner!
9 – 6 Months	Plan to take day off from work.	Hire photographer and videographer Order dress! Plan honeymoon! Book florist	Hand over payment No. 1 Order dress! Check in a few times per week to approve vendors
6 – 3 Months	Buy dress Purchase your rings	Send out save-the-dates Arrange transportation Purchase your rings Order cake!	Send out save-the-dates Breathe easy knowing everything is being handled Purchase rings! Order cake! Hand over payment No. 2
3 – 1 Month(s)		Reserve a band or D.J. Mail invitations! Get marriage license (it's good for 60 days)	Tasting with caterer! Mail invitations! Get marriage license (it's good for 60 days)
1 Month – 2 Weeks	The city requires you to wait 24 hours before you say your "I do's." Make a fancy-dinner reservation Invite a witness (make sure he or she brings ID)	Discuss shot-list witht he photogs, review the playlist with band or D.J., and confirm transportation details. Track down delinquent RSVPs Finalize readings and vows Work on seating arrangements Have fight over seating arrangements	Your planner will track down late RSVPs, but she won't do your seating arrangements Have fight with fiancé over seating arrangements
Less than 2 weeks	Get marriage license Pick up a bouquet (at a bodega, a florist, or you can get one at the city clerk's office). Tell friends and family to come!	Send out final payments Buy bridal-party gifts Pick up dress! Go for a massage Delegate Get mani-pedi with bridesmaids, sip Champagne in the bridal suite, and get ready to party!	Buy bridal-party gifts Pick up dress! Hand over final payment