Congratulations on your engagement! This is such a special time- full of excitement, celebration, and dreams of the day you’ll say “I do.” At Tankardstown House, we have had the privilege of welcoming hundreds of couples at the very beginning of their wedding journey, and we know that those first steps can make all the difference.
To help you start planning with confidence and calm, here are five things every newly engaged couple should do first.
1. Take a Moment to Celebrate Together
Before diving into guest lists and timelines, pause. Celebrate your engagement together. Whether it’s a quiet dinner, a weekend away, or simply enjoying the glow of being newly engaged, this moment is about you as a couple.
These early conversations- about what matters most to you, what you imagine for your day, and how you want it to feel- will naturally guide every decision that follows. We love welcoming newly engaged couples to Brabazon restaurant for a special celebratory meal- whether its just for 2 or to celebrate with family.
2. Agree on Your Wedding Vision
Every wedding is unique, and your first planning task should be defining your shared vision. Ask yourselves:
- Do we imagine something intimate or grand?
- Formal elegance or relaxed romance?
- A full weekend celebration or a one-day affair?
At Tankardstown House, we often encourage couples to focus less on trends and more on atmosphere- how you want your guests to feel when they arrive. Once your vision is clear, the rest of your planning becomes far simpler.
3. Set a Realistic Budget Early
Budget conversations aren’t always the most romantic- but they are essential. Having clarity from the beginning allows you to prioritise what matters most, whether that’s the venue, food and wine, music, or guest experience.
A well-planned budget doesn’t limit creativity- it gives you freedom and confidence. Knowing your parameters early will help you make decisions you’ll feel great about later.
4. Secure Your Venue as Soon as Possible
Your venue sets the tone for your entire celebration, and popular dates book quickly, particularly for exclusive-use country house weddings.
Choosing your venue early allows you to:
- Lock in your preferred date
- Begin visualising your day in the space
- Select suppliers that complement the style and setting
At Tankardstown House, couples often tell us that once the venue is chosen, everything else starts to fall into place.
5. Enjoy the Planning Process
Wedding planning should be exciting, not overwhelming. Surround yourselves with experienced professionals you trust, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to lean on expert guidance.
Remember, this journey is not just about one beautiful day- it’s about creating memories along the way. The happiest couples we welcome are those who stay present, enjoy the process, and focus on celebrating their love.
Your engagement marks the beginning of a wonderful chapter, and your wedding day should reflect who you are as a couple- authentic, joyful, and unforgettable.
At Tankardstown House, we pride ourselves on offering not just a venue, but an experience- one built on warmth, elegance, and attention to every detail. If you’re beginning your wedding journey, we would be honoured to be part of it. If you’d like to see Tankardstown House dressed for a wedding and meet our dedicated team, we invite you to join us at our New Beginnings Wedding Showcase on Sunday, 4th January, from 2–4pm. To register your interest, please email weddings@tankardstown.ie.
We also welcome private viewings, contact us today to begin your journey.
