Christmas Has Come and Gone—and You Said YES!

Now What? Your Post-Holiday Engagement Guide from Hilton Farms

Christmas lights may be coming down, the last of the holiday cookies are disappearing, and life is slowly returning to its normal rhythm—but something big has changed. You’re engaged. First and foremost, congratulations from all of us here at Hilton Farms. Saying “yes” during the holiday season is truly special. It’s romantic, meaningful, and filled with memories that will forever be tied to the warmth and magic of Christmas.

Now that the excitement of the proposal has settled and the holiday whirlwind has passed, you may be asking yourself the same question many newly engaged couples do: “What do we do now?” The good news is there is no rush. Engagement is a season meant to be savored, not sprinted through. Before diving headfirst into planning, contracts, and checklists, the most important thing you can do is simply enjoy being engaged.

Step One: Embrace Your Engagement and Each Other

Before any spreadsheets or venue tours, take time to soak in this new chapter together. Engagement is a once-in-a-lifetime season filled with anticipation, excitement, and love. The key to a long, healthy relationship is continuing to make memories—both big and small.

That might look like:

• Spending quiet evenings at home watching movies

• Snuggling on the couch with that new Christmas blanket

• Cooking dinner together instead of going out

• Talking about your future without worrying about timelines or to-do lists

These moments matter just as much as the wedding day itself. Your engagement isn’t just about planning an event—it’s about strengthening your partnership and enjoying the journey together.

A Simple Reference Guide to Wedding Planning

What You Have to Look Forward To

When you are ready to start planning, having a clear, stress-free framework makes all the difference. Below is a simple reference guide to what lies ahead, designed to help you approach each step with excitement instead of overwhelm.

Budget: Setting the Foundation for Everything Else

Your budget is one of the first things to discuss—and one of the most important. Think of it as a roadmap rather than a restriction. A realistic budget helps guide decisions and eliminates unnecessary stress later on.

Things to consider:

• Who is contributing financially

• What elements matter most to you (venue, photography, décor, food, entertainment)

• Whether you want a fully inclusive option or a more DIY approach

Remember: a beautiful, meaningful wedding is not defined by how much you spend. It’s defined by how well it reflects you as a couple.

Choosing a Date: Flexibility Is Your Friend

Once you have a general budget in mind, choosing a date becomes easier. Some couples come into engagement with a dream date already in mind, while others are flexible and open to what works best with their venue and vendors.

Consider:

• Season preference (spring, summer, fall, winter)

• Guest availability

• Vendor availability

• Flexibility that may save money or offer more options

Being open to multiple dates often opens the door to more availability and less stress.

Selecting the Right Venue: The Heart of Your Wedding Day

Your venue sets the tone for your entire celebration. It influences your guest experience, décor style, timeline, and vendor choices.

When touring venues, ask yourself:

• Does this space feel like us?

• Can we envision our ceremony and reception here?

• Does it align with our budget and vision?

• What is included, and what is not?

At Hilton Farms, we believe your venue should feel welcoming, supportive, and flexible. Our motto—“Your Day, Your Way”—means you’re never forced into a one-size-fits-all package. Whether you want full décor, partial inclusions, or a more hands-on approach, we help you create a day that feels authentic to you.

Guest Count: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Your guest count impacts nearly every planning decision—from venue size to catering costs to overall atmosphere. Take time to discuss what kind of celebration you truly want.

Ask yourselves:

• Do we envision an intimate gathering or a larger celebration?

• Are we prioritizing family, friends, or both?

• What fits our budget and comfort level?

There’s no right or wrong number—only what feels right for you.

Vendors for Every Occasion

Vendors bring your vision to life, and choosing the right ones makes planning smoother and more enjoyable.

Common vendors include:

• Photographer

• DJ or live entertainment

• Catering

• Bakery

• Florist

• Coordinator or planner

Many couples find peace of mind in working with venues that offer preferred vendor lists or inclusive options, saving time and reducing the stress of endless searching and reviews.

Décor Options: Bringing Your Vision to Life

Décor is where creativity shines. From color palettes and florals to lighting and table settings, this is where your personality truly comes through.

Décor decisions should feel exciting—not overwhelming. One of the biggest benefits of working with an inclusive or family-owned venue is access to décor options that eliminate the need to:

• Buy large quantities of décor

• Store items before the wedding

• Tear down and clean up afterward

• Attempt to resell décor post-wedding

At Hilton Farms, we offer décor solutions designed to save you time, money, and stress—so you can focus on enjoying the process.

Wedding Party: Choosing Your Inner Circle

Selecting your wedding party is about choosing the people who support you, love you, and will stand beside you during this season.

Take your time with this decision. There’s no rush, and there’s no rulebook. Whether you have a large bridal party or keep things minimal, choose what feels right for you as a couple.

Wedding Dress Shopping: A Memory to Treasure

Wedding dress shopping is often one of the most emotional and memorable parts of planning. Make it an experience—not a task.

Tips:

• Bring people who support and uplift you

• Keep an open mind

• Don’t rush the decision

• Trust how you feel in the dress

This moment becomes a story you’ll tell for years to come.

The Most Important Reminder: Enjoy Every Decision

Planning your wedding should never feel like a chore. Each decision—big or small—is part of a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

If something feels stressful, pause.
If something feels forced, reassess.
If something brings joy, lean into it.

Here at Hilton Farms, our goal is to support you through every step of the process. We believe your engagement and wedding planning should be filled with laughter, excitement, and confidence—not pressure.

Your Day. Your Way. Always.

As you move forward after your holiday engagement, remember this: there is no “right” timeline, no perfect checklist, and no single way to plan a wedding. There is only your way.

Enjoy your engagement.
Make memories.
Ask questions.
Dream big—or keep it simple.
And most of all, savor this season of life.

When you’re ready to start planning, we’re here—ready to welcome you like family and help bring your vision to life.

Congratulations again from Hilton Farms. Your journey has just begun.