WEDDING NOTES™ - Wedding Do's and Don'ts

Let your guiding principle be this - "As with any wedding, it's not just about you, it is also about your guests."  Brides who keep their guests top of mind as they make decisions about their wedding plans, end up with more memorable moments than do the brides who look at guests as people lucky enough to be included in the event.    With guests in mind,

Don't plan a difficult destination wedding.  Granted you want your day to be memorable both for yourself and your mate but also for those in attendance.  If you really want to be married on top of a ski slope in the hut where you first met, accept the fact that most folks will not be able or willing to make the trip.  If that's your dream - do it, but plan a major party at another time and place for all of your family and friends to celebrate with you.

Think hard about your need to DIY.  Some brides are true seamstresses and will find joy in creating and sewing their own bridal gown, six bridesmaids’ gowns, a flower girl dress and one mother's gown.  Another bride may be capable of individually fashioning 150 handmade invitations, envelopes and enclosures.  If that's you and you can keep your sanity through it all without driving others crazy in the process, then do it.  If you can save money and put your personal stamp on an aspect of the wedding, that's great.  But if you aren't, don't get stuck with a glue gun at 3 AM putting rhinestones on ribbons for the centerpieces.  Do only what you can and borrow or rent the rest.

 Do practice self care.  Do whatever helps you unwind and relax.  If you dwell on wedding plans to the exclusion of a life, you are doing no one a favor.  When you feel the tension building, be aware and stop and take a breath.  Remember you have a finance and that you are planning a life together.  Your relationship doesn't stop because you are busy planning YOUR wedding.

Do stick to your budget.  It may be tempting to fudge here and there but unless you have built in some wiggle room in the wedding finances, don't go overboard.  Remember that you can negotiate with vendors, or hire a wedding planner to be sure you stay within your budget.

Do be grateful for all the good wishes, gifts and offers to help.  Say thank you and mean it.  You are feeling loved so share it.  You'll feel better and so will the recipient.