Getting engaged has a way of bringing a lot of emotions to the surface. In the first days after making the decision, you and your partner will probably reach out to close friends and family to share the news. While there is nothing wrong with giving in to these positive vibes, you also need to have a few important conversations with your significant other. Understanding whether you’re are on the same page can make a big difference for your wedding planning experience. Look over these suggestions on important topics to discuss and create an easy experience for everyone involved.

Size Matters

While you may both want to host a wedding, the size of the event can make a big difference. This is important to discuss because you may have a different idea than your partner about the type of reception you’d like to throw. Some people prefer smaller affairs to which only a few close friends and family members are invited. Other people enjoy large events with lots of guests. In some cases, you will need to compromise to ensure you’re both getting what you want from the experience.

Pick a Date

The date of the event is also an important topic to bring up early. As with the size of the wedding, the date is something many people will have an opinion on. Someone dreaming of an autumn wedding will have a different vision than a person who wanted one in the spring. While you don’t need to set a date right away, you want to include the topic in your initial conversations after getting engaged. This will get you on the same page and determine what time of year suits both of your needs best.

Financial Matters

Though it may not be one of the fun topics to discuss right away, you can’t avoid discussing finances for long. According to research, couples tend to fight about money more than anything else in a relationship. If you want to get your marriage off on the right foot, be sure to have open discussions about your finances whenever possible. Planning your wedding is a great opportunity to talk about money and establish a budget for your nuptials that you both can be satisfied with.

Traditions

Planning same-sex weddings can often prove challenging for couples. Many of the rituals and traditions surrounding marriage reflect heterosexual mentalities. You and your partner might realize you want to be selective with which traditions you include on your big day. Discuss this topic early and see whether there are any specific rituals you absolutely want included. Having this conversation early will help you with your budget, as some traditions may cost extra money to include.

Why Not Elope?

Another topic you may want to discuss is eloping. Both of you might realize that you are not into the idea of a huge wedding. If you want to keep it really small and simply exchange vows, then think about going down to City Hall. You can get married on your own time and throw a party later for your friends and family.

Once you and your partner have decided to get engaged, there are a number of decisions to make. Have a conversation early to discuss these topics and engage in an open discussion to determine how you both feel and what you’d like to see come out of the experience.