These set of articles are written to help you make your wedding day all it can be, and to accentuate the pitfalls and do's and don'ts which can contribute to this day being a blessing or a disaster. In my two decades of wedding consulting, I've definitely seen my share of disasters. And unfortunately, most of these lists come out of the many problems I've seen over the years. I've always said, a person can learn two ways; through wisdom or by experience. I'm trying to lessen your experience by giving you tips for the wise, in hoping you'll heed my advice acquired over many years.
This first installment is a general overview of certain points which are very important so your wedding day will run much smoother.
1. Make sure you sent your wedding invitations out 6-8 weeks before your wedding date.
2. Be realistic about picking out the size and style of your wedding gown. Are you really going to lose all that weight? Remember, alterations are very expensive.
3. When choosing a photographer, find out if he can shoot in black and white also. Some ceremony photos like that are so amazingly beautiful and timeless.
4. Set a budget and stay there! Most first marital battles are about finances. It's just not worth it.
5. Send your thank you cards out no later than 2-3 months after the wedding.
6. Take time when selecting your music for your reception. Your first dance has to be a song that you both love and evokes memories of your time knowing each other.
7. Don't invite guests that you really don't like and you would rather not see at your wedding. It will ruin your day.
8. If you are having others do your hair and make-up, have a 'dry run'. You don't want to be shocked and/or disappointed on the day of your wedding. This is probably one of the most overlooked tips and one of the most important.
9. Make sure you both see at least 10 wedding venues before making a decision on one.
10. Make sure you have a food tasting at the venue you've selected before you sign any contract.
11. When purchasing a wedding cake, taste it before buying. Also, you can save money by having them put a 'faux cake' in the reception room but then cutting another cake to serve and eat.
12. Think about the likes and ages of your wedding party before purchasing gifts for them.
13. If you are going with limos, don't overbook them. Find out how many each one comfortably holds then book accordingly.
14. Don't forget to invite the officiant to your wedding reception.
15. Don't forget to add the band and/or DJ to the reception guest list if you are going to feed them.
16. Take dance lessons. You'll feel so wonderful if you do.
17. Register for a wide variety of gifts at a few different places. Also make sure that there is something for everyone's budget.
18. Preserve your gown. Your own daughter might want to wear it one day.
19. Select wedding favors that agree with the theme of the wedding and/or that reflect your style, personality and interests.
20. Make sure your maid of honor, or another attendant, knows how to bustle your dress.
The above are general rules for making your day run smoothly. There are many more that will be covered in the rest of the installments. Learn from those that have been there and done that, and your day will be very beautiful and you actually may even enjoy it.
Delora O'Brien is an expert in the area of wedding designs and products. She is the resident consultant at Designs to Remember. Designs to Remember is a unique online store that carries designer wedding favors, bridal gifts and accessories. Delora also oversees the extensive line of unique wedding favors, bridesmaid gifts, groomsmen gifts and wedding invitations. Many of the wedding favors and bridal shower favors she has purchased for Designs to Remember, have been featured in well known bridal magazines.
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