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Writer's pictureThe Team at The Vineyard
Dec 174 min read

Navigating the Newly Engaged Life: The First 3 Essential Steps for Every Couple in Des Moines Iowa

Getting engaged marks the start of an exciting new chapter. It's a time filled with hope, love, and plans for the future. As you step into this newly engaged life, there are key actions you should take to lay a strong foundation for your relationship. Couples in Des Moines, Iowa, benefit from charming venues and a supportive community that can make this journey even more special. Let's explore the first three essential steps every engaged couple should consider.


Step 1: Establish Your Vision Together


Every couple's journey is unique, and defining your shared vision is vital. For many newly engaged couples in Des Moines, the lively environment can inspire creativity and imagination.


Set aside quiet evenings for open conversations about your dreams for marriage and the life you want to build together. Discuss your values, individual goals, and any concerns you both may have. According to a study by the National Marriage Project, couples who communicate frequently about life goals report 30% higher levels of relationship satisfaction.


To help visualize your future, consider creating a vision board filled with images representing your dreams. This activity not only enhances your bond but also allows you to visualize what you aim to achieve together. For instance, include pictures of your dream home, destination vacations, or family moments you wish to experience.


Close-up view of a vision board filled with images and colors
A colorful collage of dreams and goals.

Step 2: Set a Budget


After forming your vision, it’s time to tackle the practical aspects of achieving that vision. Setting a budget is fundamental for engaged couples, especially in planning for the wedding and future expenses. With a variety of venues and services available in Des Moines, knowing your financial limits will make the planning process more efficient.


Begin by deciding how much you want to allocate to your wedding. Typical expenses might include the venue (which can range from $3,000 to $10,000 in Des Moines), catering (averaging $50 to $100 per guest), attire, flowers, and photography. Creating a separate savings account for your wedding can make it easier to track your progress. For example, if you save $300 a month, you could have $3,600 by the time your wedding arrives in a year.


Also, think beyond the wedding. Discuss long-term financial goals like saving for a home, retirement, or a family. Not only will this help you align your priorities, but 70% of engaged couples who discuss finances early report feeling more secure in their relationship.


Eye-level view of a cozy café table with two cups of coffee and a planner
Coffee date and planning anyone?

Step 3: Discuss the Wedding Plan


With budgets and visions in place, it's time to focus on wedding planning. This can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into steps simplifies the process. Start by defining the kind of wedding you want: Do you envision an intimate gathering or a grand celebration?


Des Moines offers a variety of stunning venues, from picturesque botanical gardens to elegant ballrooms. Research your options and visit venues that stand out to you. Flexibility is important; your initial ideas for the wedding may change as you dive deeper into planning.


Consider the overall vibe you want on your special day. Think about the guest list, what type of ceremony you prefer, and any particular traditions you'd like to include. For example, whether you want a customized cake featuring your favorite flavors or live music that represents your love story, discussing these details early will help everything go smoothly when the big day arrives.


High angle view of a sweet wedding cake adorned with flowers and decorations
A beautifully decorated wedding cake set for celebration.

Embracing the Journey Ahead as a Newly Engaged Couple


The newly engaged phase is a joyful time filled with opportunities for deeper connection and shared planning. By aligning your vision, setting a budget, and outlining your wedding plans, you're establishing a strong base for your future together.


Des Moines provides wonderful resources and picturesque venues to support your journey, making it an enjoyable experience. As you navigate this exciting time, embrace open communication and enjoy the adventure. Remember, it's not just about your wedding day—it's about the beautiful life you're planning to build together.


As you embark on these initial steps in your newly engaged journey, savor every moment and prepare for a bright future filled with love and partnership.



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Thank you for stopping by our blog! We hope that you will consider hiring a locally owned wedding venue for your big celebration. Locally owned wedding venues provide the best wedding experience, they tend to have little to no turnover, they support the local economy and they are part of the community. Choosing a locally owned wedding venue means the world to our small owned wedding venues. In an effort to support locally owned wedding venues, we will feature five small business wedding venues in each of our blogs. 

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