Planning Your Wedding
Ask any newlywed couple - even couple that have been married for a long time - and they'll all say the same thing; The key to a successful wedding is in the planning. Small things go wrong at every wedding. But keep in mind that you can save yourself from headaches by making a plan and simply sticking with it. These simple tips will help you take some of the stress away:
• Lose the Laziness
One mistake that many couples make is basking in the glow of their engagement until 4-6 months before their wedding date. Then they try to cram all of the planning into a too-short period of time. Of course you should just sit back and be thrilled about your engagement for a while, but then you have to get cracking!
•Buy a Calendar or Datebook
Once you determine your wedding date, set specific dates by which you want to get things accomplished. Try to get as much done as possible in the first few months so that the last few months won't be hectic.
• Set Aside Time to Work on Wedding Details
Choose a day of the week when you'll focus on it, or several days if you're pressed for time. Sit down together and plan. This eliminates confusion.
•Share Duties
This is the best way to get things done. You both should be involved every step of the way. Make a list of details to be taken care of, and then divide the list in half. Each of you choose what you want to do. This will make grooms want to be involved, instead of making them feel like they have to help. Involving you husband-to-be will make him feel that it's his wedding too.
•Talk, Talk, Talk
We can't stress this enough. Be sure that of if you're sharing duties that you're also sharing the details.It's okay to take care of certain things by yourself, just make sure you're telling each other about it so the caterer isn't contracted twice!
•Be Flexible
Okay. So you really didn't want the groom/usher in those tails and top hats. And maybe he doesn't want the cake to be lemon with pecan icing!. Each of you is going to want things that the other doesn't care for,but flexibility is a must. Be willing to bend. If you really object to something, let you objection be dully heard and noted. Just give the other person a chance to explain why he/she really wants to arrive at the reception in a hot tub in the back of the limo.
•Details, Contracts & Negotiations
When dealing with wedding professionals, be sure to clarify all the details and your expectations during the initials discussions. Make sure you get a contract specifically stating dates, times, and locations. Be sure to include what you feel is appropriate dress, and what you feel isn't. Spell out everything. Try to negotiate the best deal for goods and services, but don't sell yourself short on important things just to get a better price.
Most importantly, be sure to read the fine print on every contract before you sign it, and make sure you're aware of cancellation policies and fees. Also, ask if there's a grace period to cancel just in case you change your mind or something happens and you need to postpone the wedding.
•Stay Organized
This one's pretty obvious! The more organized you are, the less chance there is that something will go wrong. Buy a notebook, and keep all your wedding information in it. Receipt, contracts, ideas - everything. You might also want to get notebooks for your maid of honor/bridesmaids and the the best man. Put info such as dates, times, locations, and duties. This will keep everyone organized as well, and minimize the chance of someone missing a fitting date or rehearsal time