What to Do After Getting Engaged: Your Central PA Wedding Planning Kickstart

You're Engaged—Now What?

Hi! We’re Josh and Taylor of JTR Media—a husband-and-wife wedding photography and videography team based right here in Central Pennsylvania. If you just got engaged, let us start by saying: congratulations! You’re about to begin one of the most exciting journeys of your life, and we’re so honored to walk beside you during these early steps.

After years of photographing weddings across the region—from snowy Saint Francis Gardens to golden fall evenings at Marrara’s Mountain Lodge—we know that the first few weeks after getting engaged can feel overwhelming. So many decisions. So many lists. So many people asking, “Have you picked a date yet?”

That’s why we created this post. If you're wondering what to do after getting engaged, here’s a guide designed with real Central Pennsylvania couples in mind—filled with practical steps, personal advice, and a little encouragement, too.

1. Celebrate the Moment

Before jumping into planning mode, pause to soak it in. You’re engaged! Pop some champagne. Call your parents. Share the story with friends. Get that ring selfie. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chapter, and it deserves to be celebrated fully.

One of the most meaningful ways to commemorate this milestone is through an engagement session. It gives you time to slow down and just be together—no pressure, no rush. Just real smiles, shared stories, and beautiful images that reflect your connection.

2. Talk About What Matters Most

Before booking a venue or trying on dresses, take time as a couple to talk through your big-picture wedding priorities.

• Do you envision a large celebration or something more intimate?

• Is photography and videography a top priority?

• Do you picture your day in a rustic barn, an elegant ballroom, or a backyard?

Knowing what’s most important to you will guide the rest of your decisions—and keep you grounded when the Pinterest boards start to take over.

As Central PA wedding photographers, we’ve seen firsthand how clear priorities lead to smoother, more joyful planning.

3. Set a Comfortable Budget

Money conversations aren’t always the most romantic—but they are essential. Whether you're saving for a dream honeymoon or hoping to invest in heirloom-quality photos and video, your budget should reflect your shared values and vision.

Don’t worry about having every number finalized today. Instead, build a flexible framework so you can allocate funds confidently as you move forward.

4. Choose Your Date and Venue

Once your budget is outlined, the next step is selecting your wedding date and venue—two pieces that will shape the entire feel of your celebration.

Whether you dream of a fall wedding under golden leaves in State College, a snowy ceremony at Saint Francis University, or a summer celebration overlooking Raystown Lake, Central Pennsylvania has no shortage of stunning locations.

But here’s the truth: the best venues (and the best vendors) book quickly. If your heart is set on a specific date or location, start reaching out early.

5. Start Booking Your Vendors

With a date and venue secured, it’s time to build your dream team. Your photographer and videographer will be with you throughout the day—capturing real moments, helping you feel comfortable, and preserving your memories for generations.

We always recommend booking your wedding photographer and videographer early, especially if your date falls during peak seasons like fall or summer. And if you're working with us, you’ll also receive custom timelines and planning guidance, so everything runs smoothly from the start.

6. Get Organized

From guest lists and catering to timelines and attire, wedding planning involves a lot of moving parts. To stay on top of everything:

• Use a wedding planning app or physical binder

• Create a shared digital calendar with deadlines

• Schedule monthly “check-ins” with your partner to stay aligned

We also offer planning tools and timeline consultations to all our couples, helping you stay focused and stress-free.

7. Include the People You Love

Whether it's asking your best friend to be your maid of honor or inviting your parents to venue tours, involving your loved ones can make the planning process even more meaningful.

Pro tip: Accept help, but don’t lose sight of your vision. This is your love story—let it reflect who you truly are.

8. Don’t Forget to Have Fun

There will be moments that feel stressful, but planning your wedding should also be filled with joy, laughter, and anticipation. Have planning dates over coffee. Watch cheesy wedding movies. Dance in your kitchen while brainstorming songs for your first dance.

And remember: it’s not about perfection—it’s about meaning.

9. Think About the Story You Want to Tell

Wedding photography and videography aren’t just about pretty portraits. They're about telling your love story—truthfully and beautifully. At JTR Media, we believe in capturing every real, emotional, joy-filled moment in a way that feels timeless, authentic, and full of connection.

From your engagement session to your final wedding gallery, we’re here to document it all—because these photos and films will only grow more meaningful with time.

Ready to Begin?

We know how overwhelming the early days of planning can be—but you're not alone. Whether you're newly engaged and bursting with ideas, or just beginning to explore the first steps, we’re here to help you create something unforgettable.

Reach out to us at JTR Media, and let’s begin crafting the wedding day you’ve always imagined.

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