Recently engaged? Congratulations! You’re about to step into one of the most exciting (and, okay, occasionally overwhelming) chapters of your life. The sun’s out, love is in the air, and wedding season is officially here — meaning your Pinterest boards are about to be full and your inbox even fuller.

As someone who recently got engaged — while juggling two cultures, long-distance, and even interfaith family dynamics — I’m here to tell you: yes, it’s a lot, but it’s totally doable. And it doesn’t have to be stressful!

Here’s how to prepare for your big day…

1. Start With the Big Picture: What Do You Want?

Before diving into napkin colors or playlist spreadsheets, take a pause and talk with your partner. What kind of vibe do you want for your wedding? Grand and elegant wedding? Small intimate walimah? Destination elopement?

This is your season so don’t be afraid to set the tone.

Pro Tip: Make a shared “wedding mood board” and go over what style and vendors you both wish to have. Dream together before diving into logistics.

2. (Unfortunately) Set the budget

It’s tempting to dive straight into venues and dresses, but trust me setting your budget early will save you from serious headaches later.

• Break it into categories: venue, catering, attire, travel, extras.
  

• Add a “just in case” buffer.
  

• Be open and honest with family if they’re helping — clarity > awkward assumptions.
  

Summer Tip: Look into weekday or Sunday weddings — they’re often cheaper and more available during the busy summer rush.

3. Culture clash? Family Matters? 

Weddings and the pre wedding events (Henna, Dholki, Bridal Showers, etc) is a beautiful way to bring together two families, two cultures, languages, or even religious backgrounds. That can be beautiful, but also tricky. At the end of the day, do what you and your fiance want to truly do.

Create space for everyone to feel seen, without sacrificing what matters most to you both.

• Combine music or food traditions from both sides.
  

• Have a casual family meet-up or Zoom call early to start building connections.
  

• Choose rituals or readings that feel meaningful to you, not just what’s expected.

4. Long Distance?

If you and your partner are planning from afar, it’s definitely doable with some creativity and communication.

• Set regular planning calls and use shared apps like Trello or Google Docs.
  

• Set up virtual dates or meetings to stay updated. Even send a surprise iced latte to their door, plan a playlist together, or countdown the days with a digital calendar.
  

• Schedule in-person planning weekends or venue tours when possible.

And don’t forget — the distance is temporary, but the memories (and the marriage) are forever.

5. Prepare for marriage - the most important step

In all the cake tasting and dress hunting, don’t forget why you’re doing this: to build a life with someone.

Set aside time to talk about:

• Life goals, money, and future plans
  

• What love and partnership mean to each of you.
  

• Most importantly, watch marriage based Isalmic lectures to prepare spiritually and emotionally for marriage. This is by far the most effective way to prepare for any marriage once engaged. Here is a link to an amazing lecture course based on marriage for Muslims.

To sum up, weddings are beautiful, but they’re just the beginning. As you prepare for your big day, stay grounded in love, laugh through the little hiccups, and know that your relationship is what truly matters.

Summer is for love, light, and new beginnings — and this one’s all yours.