Wedding Tips
Whether you are hiring a planner, or planning a wedding yourself, it is always a good idea to keep these helpful tips in mind.
Keep copies of everything!!
Make sure you keep copies of all your wedding info in a binder or multi file folder. This includes all vendor contracts, receipts, correspondences (print out e-mails), invoices, guest list, registry information, a contact list of the wedding party, etc. Keep everything labeled and easy to find. If you ever have a problem such as a vendor ‘forgetting’ that you paid them, you will have all the correct information at your fingertips!
Do your homework
Bridal directories and phone books are distributed for a reason. There are a slew of vendors out there, waiting for your call! That said, don’t settle for the first vendor you come across. That venue is beautiful, and those flowers are gorgeous – but – the next vendor may be even more fantastic (And in your price range). It pays to shop around.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
This is YOUR wedding. Anything you are not sure of, ask your vendor. Communication is a must. This includes things about the service you are receiving, especially if it is something you don’t like. The vendor is your employee, you are paying them to provide you with a service which needs to be up to your standards.
Figure out your budget
Deciding on a budget can be difficult. However, it is usually not best to ‘wing it’ and see how it goes… Sit with your partner (and any family members who may have offered to contribute to the funds), and discuss how much money is available in the pot. Once you have a clear budget amount in your head, it will be easier to delegate.
Don’t underestimate ‘Save the Date’ cards
‘Save the Date’ cards are often overlooked. However, if you are planning your wedding a year or so in advance, it is a good idea to inform some of your guests (those you know will absolutely be invited) know the date. This will give them ample time to request off from work or arrange travel plans for out-of-towners.
Remember who is in charge
Weddings are stressful enough, but don’t be bullied by friends and relatives. Obviously, this is a sensitive subject. Everyone who loves you will want to be involved in your special day, or to be recognized/honored somehow. But once again, remember, this is YOUR wedding. Your sister doesn’t have to be your bridesmaid and your best friend doesn’t have to be the ‘photographer’. You’re dream wedding should be just that – YOUR dream wedding.
Don’t sweat the small stuff
Inevitably, something will probably go wrong on the wedding day. Happily, it’s not always a catastrophe. Maybe your 3 year old ring bearer will decide the church is too hot for a jacket and tie, or perhaps Grandma becomes very vocal while taking a small catnap during the service, it’s not the end of the world. Unexpected ‘happenings’ may occur, but they have been known add character to a wedding, and you and your spouse will have a cute little story to tell your grandchildren at your 50th anniversary.
Welcome basket
Small gifts to out-of-town guests are not a necessity, but can help your guests feel a bit more comfortable in a new place. They do not need to be full of expensive perfumes and other pricey gifts. Instead fill small baskets with area maps, brochures of neighborhood attractions, and maybe some local restaurant coupons.
The dress, the dress, the dress
The dress is one of the most important aspects of a wedding for many brides. In fact, a dress has been known to be the basis of decoration for many wedding receptions. We suggest you begin looking for your dress as soon as possible. Even if your wedding is two years away and you still want to lose 10 or 15 pounds before the date, it is important to know what styles you like, and which ones flatter you the best. We suggest trying on every dress in every style for at least a few months before you begin to ‘seriously’ shop for your gown. Also, take pictures of every dress you like from every angle. Write down the name of the designer and the price in the store. You may be able to find the dress cheaper on the designer's website.
Start an idea book
This is possibly one of the most important suggestions to all brides. Anytime you see or hear an idea you like - write it down, print it out, or tear out the page of the magazine it’s in. Keep everything in a folder. Later, when you’re ready to get down to the details of your wedding, you will be able to go back and see all the ideas you enjoyed over the past few months. This also eliminates regret later on when you suddenly remember how much you like the flowers at your cousins wedding, but you have already ordered and paid for a less fantastic set of arrangements.