What is the best advice you can give about planning a wedding?

Answer 1

Well, a wedding is a big thing, and takes a lot of organization. I highly recommend using a wedding website to keep track of things – they usually have lots of resources, lists of things to do that can be checked off, and budgeting tools, both to help you set one up and also to keep track of how it’s going. You can also buy wedding planning books. If you want to find local vendors (photographers, florists, bakers, etc) I recommend going to a local bridal show if you can; this is a nice way to find a bunch of different people all at once. Also, get your friends and family involved – there are often a lot of people who would love to be involved in your wedding, so take advantage of that and get them to help with making favors or addressing invitations and stuff, all those little things. Keep in mind that there are quite a few things that make a big difference that you don’t want to completely forget (rings, dress, flowers, etc), but also don’t obsess over little details like some people do – it doesn’t make a huge difference whether the tablecloths are cream or beige, for example. Do your research, because you can find some great deals, but it might take quite a bit of time and patience. And don’t forget to look in non-wedding related places for things – being labeled “wedding” anything drives the price up. For example, my flower girls’ dresses were purchased right after Easter, so they were on sale and they were adorable and about a quarter of the price of a typical flower girl dress. Most of all, keep in mind what you want, be willing to compromise when you need to, and HAVE FUN! :o)

Answer 2

Time management. After you both are completely sure this is what you want for your relationship you should really treat this like a business plan or large-scale school assignment. This is really not like anything you've ever planned in your entire life.

If you can afford a wedding planner then get one and it'll make your life a million times easier (we don't have one). But if you can't afford one or are doing your wedding low-budget (ours is at $10,000) then start planning early. Make sure you leave enough time to execute your vision.

You have to have a vision or theme of what your wedding is, otherwise you'll be pulled in a million directions and your wedding will look like an uncoordinated zoo. But if you go in with a plan, a budget and helpful friends then just remember to ask for help when you need it and involve friends and family (it makes them feel special) in order to relieve your stress.

Also, I agree with some of the other responses that say the wedding is really just a day or two and the thing you should be preparing for the most is the marriage afterwards. You two will have fights and disagreements but as long as you love each other and are willing to work things out then don't stress about the wedding, because the marriage is what will last.

On a what I think is the most important aspect of the wedding note, don't skimp on photography because that is how you will remember the day and how beautiful you both were. Just my 2 cents (ok, a little more than 2...).

Answer 3

Make this your wedding, not what your mother wants or your friends think you should do. This day is about you and your wishes. I have been to weddings that cost in the hundred thousands and weddings that have cost under twenty thousand. People always say what a good time they had at the cheaper weddings. The more expensive weddings are really just a show. So plan for you but keep in mind what will make the guests have a good time.

Answer 4

Make sure it is exactly what you and your soon-to-be-husband want. Don't let anyone tell you what to do. My husband and I got engaged 3 months after meeting, then we had a long engagement so we could save money and plan the best wedding possible. It turned out fantastic and I wouldn't have changed a thing. People are going to tell you what you should and shouldn't do, but make sure it makes the both of you happy - that's the most important thing.

Answer 5

Do what you can yourself. The cost will add up quickly. Search the internet for ideas, then try making things yourself. Ask around, accept people help when they offer it. If you're not sure, dont be afraid to ask. Surround yourself with friends and family members that have been there and may know some tricks. They'll know how to cut costs and know what not to forget. Enlist the help of the knoties at www.theknot.com. That will come in handy too. Do not procrasinate. I repeat, do not procrastinate.

Answer 6

Plan a budget and stick to it. Make sure you leave a little extra for those "I have to have it!" finds. Things you hadn't initially wanted until you saw it in the store or catalog.

Plan a timeline and stick to it. You can find traditional timelines all over the place. They really help reduce the stress that planning a wedding can create.

Answer 7

Remember that the important thing is the marriage, not the wedding. Don't put everybody in debt for just one weekend when you have a life to live together. Don't get so stressed out over the details that you alienate everybody.

Answer 8

sit down and make a list of things to do and then work by the list try to find a theme asap it makes things so much easier. don't drive yourself crazy trying to make everything perfect b/c on the actual day everything won't be perfect do the best you can with what you have and be creative and unique ask friends and family for help b/c it's alot to do on your own you may take advice and suggestions from others but at the end of the day do what you and your hubby to be agree on. talk to him remember this is his day too. good luck and contact me if you need any help i'd be more than glad to lend a hand.

Answer 9

If you're the bride/groom: Think of it a hundred times. Once you're sure, get a nice coordinator and plan it together (all three of you..but if the budget can't afford it, it'll be better if both of you would share on the work load-it's really sweet and relieving).

Answer 10

Be organized! Keep a checklist and make a budget. Add personal touches where you can. Get your fiance involved and have fun planning your special day together!