Oh my goodness, the holidays are approaching! With Halloween nearing, we all know just how quickly the others follow. Holidays are SUCH a magical time—sparkling lights, cozy nights, delicious food, and time spent with loved ones. But if you’re newly engaged, this season takes on a whole new level of excitement. Whether you said “yes!” just a few weeks ago, or you have been engaged for a bit, the holidays are the perfect time to celebrate, plan, and soak in all of the special moments.
Here’s how to make the most of the upcoming holiday season as a newly engaged couple:
1. Celebrate being engaged with Loved Ones (In Person or Virtually)
The holidays are often filled with family gatherings and special traditions—making them a great time to share your big news if you haven’t done so already. Gathering with family and friends is the perfect opportunity to share your engagement with those that you love!
2. Host (or Attend) an Engagement Celebration
Whether it’s an impromptu toast at a holiday dinner or a sweet, little get-together with close friends, a small engagement celebration fits perfectly into the festive spirit. Everyone loves a reason to get together during the holidays.
Want to go bigger? Use New Year’s Eve as a dual celebration—it’s the perfect excuse to pop champagne—but really? Do we ever need ann excuse to pop champagne?— and celebrate your love.
3. Take Holiday Engagement Photos
Nothing says “holiday magic” like snowy backdrops, twinkling lights, and warm winter outfits. Um. Ok. that was me pretending I was up North like the childhood and young adult Christmases that I remember. Let me try again. Nothing says “holiday magic” like white sandy beaches and bright sunny light with tank tops and flip flops.
In all seriousness though, schedule a quick engagement shoot with your photographer and use the photos for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or custom holiday cards. Reach out to my fab friends, Lauren and Cheyne for a little winter love sesh.
4. Start Talking Dates & Venues
Once the initial engagement excitement settles in, begin thinking about a timeline that makes sense for you. The holidays are a great time to:
- Talk with the important family members about potential dates and time contraints
- Research venues (many book up a year or two in advance! Here at Lavender on the Lake, we are booking into 2027.)
- Start envisioning the season you’d like to marry in.
Take your time to let things soak in! Touring venues in January is a great first step. Enjoy the holidays and with the goal to kick off the year with all things wedding planning.
5. Send “We’re Engaged!” Holiday Cards
Go ahead and combine your engagement announcement with your holiday cards. A festive card with your engagement photo is a fun way to share the big news with extended friends and family.
6. Drop Wedding Hints for Holiday Gifts
Start thinking ahead! The holidays are a perfect time to start building your wedding planning toolbox. Think:
- Wedding planning books
- Monogrammed planners and/or details
- Special champagne flutes
- Framed photos from your engagement
- Personalized gifts for your future spouse
7. Savor the Moment
Most importantly, enjoy the little moments and don’t get too caught up in the to-do lists. Your engagement era is short and sweet—especially when paired with the beauty of the holiday season. Make time for cozy movie nights, hot cocoa dates, and quiet moments together.
Ready to Plan the Big Day?
If you’re looking for a stunning venue to bring your wedding dreams to life, the new year is the perfect time to start researching and exploring. Many couples book 12–18 months in advance, so don’t wait too long to secure your ideal date! If you want more information to find out if Lavender on the Lake is your dream wedding venue, reach out to me here. I will personally be in touch and can help answer any of your questions. I LOVE to share our beautiful space!
Bonus Tip:
Some venues (including LOTL!) offer special perks or pricing if you book during the holiday season. Be sure to inquire!
I love supporting locally owned venues from across the country as I believe that we provide a one of a kind service for our couples and communities. Therefore I add several venues here. You can also look here at this wedding venue map!
Thank you so much for popping by my blog! Having created this event space has been a blessing and a true dream. We appreciate all of the support!
XO
Shelley