Congrats! Your partner finally popped the question! Now what?

(Just don’t forget to breathe.)

By Danielle Bouchat-Friedman

As you gaze down at the brand-new sparkle on your hand, a million thoughts race through your head. Before you get into the fundamentals of wedding planning, we offer eight pieces of advice you may overlook once that bling lands on your ring finger.

1. Sit down. You may have stopped breathing (or were rapidly breathing) while being flooded with every emotion in the book—from bewilderment to surprise to confusion to sheer joy. The last thing you want is to faint.

2. Drink some champagne. As you sip some bubbly, revisit the proposal in your mind. Some brides can’t remember what was said (did he express his undying love or did he simply ask, “will you marry me?”) You will be telling (and retelling) the story over and over again, so now is the time to recall all the precious details.

3. Make your calls. Your parents. His parents. Your friends, siblings and grandparents. You’ll probably be asked a lot of the same questions: (“How did he ask? Have you discussed a date yet?”) Followed by numerous requests for photos of the new bling.

4. Get your ring appraised and insured. It may not be something you want to think about, but get it done ASAP. Finding a quality jewelry appraiser is important, like one who graduated from the Gemological Institute of America. And if you own a home or rent, you can easily add your jewelry to your existing insurance policy.

   

5. Get your nails done. If you were suspecting that a proposal was imminent, then you can bypass this step. But if your hubby-to-be was able to pull of a surprise proposal, then get your nails in tip-top shape before you post any engagement ring selfies.

6. Sit back, relax and relish the moment. It’s an exciting time in your life, but take a few weeks—or even a few months—and simply enjoying being engaged.

7. Buy a bunch of bridal magazines. Now’s the time to dream and think about when and where you want to say “I do.” Peruse dresses and venues and start thinking about your colors and possible wedding theme.

8. Stay calm—and keep breathing. Planning your special day is exciting, overwhelming, stressful and a lot of fun. But remember, this journey is about the rest of your lives, not just one day.