You’re engaged! Cue the confetti, the happy tears, and the endless stream of wedding planning questions. But before we dive into the details of centerpieces, venues, and floral arrangements (which I know are on your mind), let's take a moment to talk about something equally exciting and far more personal — the traditions you and your soon-to-be spouse can start right now.
Traditions are more than just fun rituals; they’re little moments that help you grow together as a couple, create shared memories, and solidify your bond. As your wedding planning bestie (who loves all things sentimental), I’ve rounded up some of my favorite, easy-to-start traditions that can help lay the foundation for a lifetime of love and connection.
1. The “Wedding Date Anniversary” Celebration
Okay, I know this sounds a little cheesy, but hear me out: your season of engagement doesn’t last forever and it’s a time to celebrate the sh*t out of it! Once you’ve set your wedding date, let’s say it’s the 20th of October, on the 20th of every month between now and your wedding, plan a special date with your fiance. Intentionally set the time aside to just be with each other, soak up all the bliss that this season has to offer, write each other love letters to hold onto forever - simply be reminded of the love that got you here in the first place.
2. Create a “Memory Box”
If you’ve ever seen those adorable "memory boxes" floating around Pinterest, you know the concept: at any point that feels significant in your relationship (and trust me: there’s going to be a LOT in this season of engagement), add something meaningful to your box. It could be a ticket from a concert you went to, a small memento from your engagement day, a love letter, or even a favorite candy you shared on your first date. This box will become a sweet little time capsule of your journey as a couple. Plus, when you’re old and gray, you’ll have a beautiful collection of memories to look back on.
4. Wedding Planning Rituals
While planning your wedding, why not start some new traditions tied directly to your big day? For example, you could make a tradition of cooking dinner together every Sunday night to unwind from wedding planning stress. Maybe it’s taking time every Thursday night to practice your first dance together and once you’re married, you’re already in the habit of slow dancing together on a weekly basis. I mean come on - how dreamy is that?!
These mini rituals will give you time to slow down and connect with each other outside of all the hustle and bustle that comes along with engagement and wedding planning. According to a recent study, rituals can even result in couples feeling more satisfied in their relationship.
5. Start a Travel Tradition
If you’re both into travel (who isn’t, right?), why not start a tradition of going somewhere special every year? Maybe it’s a weekend getaway to a place you’ve never been, or maybe you’ll choose a spot that’s significant to your relationship, like the place you got engaged. I’ve loved seeing a number of my couples pass on the presents to each other on birthdays and holidays, and instead, choose to celebrate their anniversary together by investing in a trip once a year. Having an annual tradition of exploring new places together can keep the spark alive, and it’s an easy way to make sure you have regular, quality time to focus on one another.
6. Date Night Jar
Let’s face it: life gets busy. But making time for each other is key! Create a "date night jar" where you each write down date ideas on slips of paper. It could be as simple as “Movie night and pizza” or “Take a pottery class together” or even “Go to a museum we’ve never been to.” Draw a slip once a week or once a month and turn your date nights into something fresh and exciting. Bonus points if you make it a tradition to take turns choosing the activity.
7. Commit to “Love Notes”
Whether it’s handwritten letters or small Post-Its hidden in pockets or on the bathroom mirror, make a pact to write each other love notes. These don’t have to be grand gestures (though those are fun too). Sometimes the sweetest notes are the simple ones that say, "I’m thinking of you" or "You’re my favorite person." They’ll become little love-filled treasures you can cherish forever. Need some inspiration? Oprah's got you covered.
Starting traditions with your significant other now, during this exciting time of engagement, sets the tone for the kind of life you’ll share. They don’t have to be perfect, but they should reflect your personalities, interests, and love. Whether big or small, these traditions are yours, and over the years, they’ll become the foundation of your relationship, creating a lifetime of memories.
xo,
Katie
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