Short vs. Long Engagements: Which is best for you?

You’re engaged — hooray! You’ve been waiting for this day and, now that it’s here, what comes next is a little foggy. Will you dive right into wedding plans? Or are you in no rush to fill your days with planning meetings and DIY projects?

Planning the next step toward marriage is undoubtedly exciting — and not just for you and your partner! It’s likely your family and friends are eagerly anticipating the chance to celebrate your love as well. In fact, you might find people asking if you’ve booked your California wedding venue yet — even when you’ve just shared it on social media!

You and your significant other may be wondering whether to start planning your wedding right away or take your time to bask in newly engaged bliss. If that’s the case, keep reading!

If you don’t know where to begin, this blog will share some excellent benefits of both short and long engagements to guide your decision. But remember: What works for others doesn’t necessarily mean it’s right for you!

Without further ado, here’s a look at both ends of the spectrum:

A Case for Short Engagements

According to California wedding pros, a short engagement is considered one that is less than 18 months long. Many couples appreciate a shorter timeline, as it doesn’t typically involve the wedding planning burnout associated with longer engagements.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of obsessing over every little detail of the big day. After all, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event! And with a myriad of options at your disposal, the excitement is often followed by confusion and overwhelm.

With a shorter preparation period, you are left with no choice but to make fast and assertive decisions which, in turn, can take some pressure off the both of you!

At the same time, you don’t have to worry as much about possible life changes that may derail your plans such as a death in the family, loss of income, or pregnancies in the wedding party!

Short engagements keep the flame of excitement burning bright and allow you and the love of your life to enjoy your future together as soon as you can.

A Case for Long Engagements

Some engaged couples in California prefer a long engagement as a way to ensure everything goes smoothly when they tie the knot. As it’s such a momentous occasion, they appreciate having more time to get the wedding details right—from their CA wedding venue, food and drinks, entertainment, flowers, decors, wedding attire, hair and makeup — the list can go on and on.

If you want to create the most magical and unforgettable event possible, it’s worth considering pushing your wedding to a later date. You’ll have a better shot at booking highly-rated, sought-after vendors and locations. Plus, you and your partner will have more time to save up for the wedding of your dreams.

Plus, you also get the opportunity to incorporate as many DIY elements as you like into your special day! Creating your own wedding décor, centerpieces, party favors, flower arrangements, invitations and the like can give your celebration a unique touch while possibly bringing the wedding spending down. A longer engagement means you don’t have to rush any projects leading up to the big day.

And of course, your trip down the aisle won’t be complete without the presence of all your favorite people in the world! Longer engagements give your guests more time to prepare for your event, which is especially helpful for out-of-towners. Some will need to adjust their schedules and make travel arrangements to celebrate the start of this next chapter of their lives, so a little extra wiggle room can make all the difference!

Perhaps most importantly, long engagements mean you get to spend more time with your partner discussing not only your wedding but your expectations and goals for married life together. CA wedding pros agree that it’s incredibly important to lay down the groundwork for a strong relationship after a couple ties the knot!

Short or long, your destiny still awaits. So, which will it be? Remember to follow what speaks to both you and your partner. And above all else, enjoy the journey!