Ten Tips to Help Plan Your Special Day

By Lisa Gonzalez

Many brides believe they can tackle planning their own wedding only to realize a little too late that they've bitten off a little more than they can chew. Don't be fooled; wedding planners really work hard. To be prepared, there are a lot of things you'll need to do to make your wedding the wedding you really want.

1. Set the wedding date at least ten to twelve months in advance.

2. Purchase a daily planner complete with checklists and contacts, and create a file system as back up for receipts or any types of papers you’ll accumulate. Keep everything, even estimates.

3. Do not carry the planning on your shoulders alone entirely. Give all of your friends, family, the wedding party, or anyone willing to help a ‘to-do’ list, and follow up with them regularly.

4. Reserve the location of the wedding and the reception area as soon as possible.

5. Make appointments with florists, caterers, photographer, and band/DJ as soon as possible after your engagement to ensure the time to find the right one.

6. Calculate your budget. Don't go overboard if you’re playing with a limited amount of cash, keep track of all costs, and be conscious of your spending. Don't be trapped by those vendors that offer financing.

7. If you see an advertisement for an upcoming bridal show, make plans to go. Vendors share lots of information and you can use it to make sure you're getting the best deal for your buck.

8. Don't forget to include your soon to be spouse; the big day will be for both of you, after all. Allow your finacé to express ideas, attend bridal shows or visit with vendors.

9. No matter what, don’t buy things at the spur of the moment. Ponder every decision for at least one week before splurging, especially for high-ticket items or services. A better deal could be waiting around the corner.

10. Don’t neglect your relationship. Wedding planning can consume so much time and energy, couples may find it hard to share together time without talking or stressing about the wedding. Prohibit wedding discussion.

When you feel that you have too much on your plate, pass over a few tasks to someone else, and relax. Concentrate on the things that are most important, and if the unexpected happens, remember that a few years from now, you’ll likely be able to laugh about it. Keeping a positive attitude is a must!

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