Bridal Tips

So..I've gone into super focused bride mode, hence the lack of posts. I wanted to leave the wit and wisdom of planning a wedding...I think I might continue adding on to this list lol...

1) Lists - I can't stress enough how wonderful lists,schedules, check lists are.

2) Write everything down - there are times where I remember people telling me pertinent information back in September..and I wish remember what they say today, in June.

3) Make a list of short term goals and pace events throughout the year (or how many months you have to plan) - so you know exactly where you are in terms of completion

4) Don't get too bogged down with wedding magazines - Okay, I have to admit, I splurged and bought a zillion bridal magazines because when I was younger, I knew I was gonna do that one day. But really, I barely touched them because most of them are for wedding dresses (which I got right away) and for ads. If you're looking for great resources, go to marthastewart.com, theknot.com, wedding bells or if you're a DIY type of person, weddingbee is fabulous.

5) DIY - Do It Yourself. It will cut costs significantly. BUT...you should still do your homework and see whether you doing it yourself WOULD be cheaper rather than buying. Take into account how long it will take you to make, the supplies, shipping, etc.

6) Let it go. Myself included, we all get so crazy on making the day perfect, you sometimes catch yourself going, "is this what i really envisioned as my 'perfect' wedding?" - look, bottom line is, it isn't whether your table runners are eggplant or maroon, it's the fact you're getting married. you're doing the very best you can. do what you can but don't over obsess over the little things.

7) Make sure not all your conversations are wedding related. Its hard to say to a bride who's planning her wedding since its always always ALWAYS in her mind, but you have to realize that life isn't just about freaking out over linens or not being able to find the right shoes. If someone asks how the wedding planning is going, answer briefly and don't make it a 10 minute one way conversation!

8) Use other brides/newly weds advice. I think most of the people I hired for my wedding were from referrals. It cuts the time of searching and at least you have an honest opinion.

9) Try not to be neurotic. Its hard to say, because there's a million people who have a million opinions. But try and let it slide and tell them you appreciate the offer/opinion/insight and you'll take it into mind. You don't have to, but it'll shut em up.

10) When you have your mind made up on something. GO FOR IT. Don't let people sway you...even if it is an aquamarine taffeta mermaid dress you plan to wear. If you truly want it - then FUCKIN' GO FOR IT.

11) Keep your bridal party in the loop. Be it email blasts, meetings, newsletters...make sure they know whats up.

12) ENJOY your BIG DAY as much as possible. I'm not there but thats all everyone keeps telling me - and its true - going to a wedding recently, the time goes by so fast.

13) TAKE A LOT OF PHOTOS ALONG THE WAY. I haven't taken that many photos but I have a lot from the beginning stages of planning and I absolutely love them. Before the wedding day - its not about the wedding day - its about the journey there!

14) Thank and keep thanking. You're paying your florist, baker, decorator, caterer...you're not paying your bridal party. Be thankful for all they've done for you and what they continue to do.