How to Milk Your “Just Engaged” Status
Of course, being just engaged is exciting, but turns out there are lots of freebies and perks you can take advantage of. Here are a few of our favorites.
As you may already know, there’s nothing quite like that just-engaged feeling. You’ve found the one and are gearing up for months of festivities with family and friends, culminating in the biggest celebration of all—your wedding. While the joy of being engaged is special enough, turns out that ring on your (or your partner’s) finger is the ticket to lots of unexpected perks. While we fully realize that you didn’t get engaged for the freebies, why not take this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to milk your just-engaged status for all it’s worth?
Check out some perks you’ll now have access to as a card-carrying (or ring-wearing?) member of the just-engaged club.
Go for those freebies and upgrades.
We don’t recommend constantly announcing your engagement to every stranger you meet, but sometimes, sharing your “just engaged” status can get you some special treatment—nothing major, usually, but still special. For example, mentioning that you and your partner are celebrating your engagement at a restaurant might garner you a free dessert or glass of bubbly. Maybe telling that friendly-looking gate agent at the airport that you’re going on a post-engagement getaway will get you an upgrade or a special treat on the plane. And don't forget to mention that it's your honeymoon when booking travel and accommodations for your big trip. Remember that sharing your excitement in a natural way will get you much further than being demanding.
Attend wedding expos.
Once you’ve started planning your big day, there’s a whole new world of events available to you: wedding expos. Yes, it does often cost money to attend (usually a fairly small amount, sometimes free), but you’ll likely be wowed by the number of freebies you’ll gather at these events. Yes, you absolutely need to spend time networking with wedding vendors, but you’ll also enjoy free food from caterers, free champagne, cake samples, photo booths, swag bags, fashion shows, and more. You’ll also likely have the opportunity to enter contests for free honeymoons, plus have access to discounts on wedding products and services. These events are definitely a fun way to spend a day, particularly if you bring your partner, friends, or family members.
Check out registry events.
One of the first things you’ll likely do as a just-engaged couple is set up your wedding registry. You could just head to a store at your convenience to set yours up, do it online, or attend one of the many registry events that retailers often host. These events often include refreshments, giveaways, discounts, gifts, and more, plus the opportunity to build your registry with the help of in-store experts. So if you’re planning on registering at a particular store, check online or give ‘em a call to see if they’re hosting a registry event anytime soon. And even if you’re not able to attend an event, many stores offer couples free gifts just for registering with them. Many retailers will also give you a discount after your wedding so you can purchase any remaining items off of your registry.
Sign up for wedding-planning sites.
These days, most of wedding planning is done online. You’ll likely sign up with at least one website (not to toot our own horn, but we recommend WeddingWire!) to help organize and streamline your wedding-planning process. When you do, you’ll likely be privy to discounts, freebies, and special giveaways. For example, you might receive free invitation samples, discounts on honeymoons, and more. Plus, you’ll have access to free tools, like a wedding website builder, guest list, and budget organizer.
