So You've Decided To Get Married
"Good plans shape good decisions. That's why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true."~Geoffrey Fisher
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So you've decided to get married! What an incredibly wonderful time for both you and your partner as well as your family members and friends. You have so much to look forward to during the planning process. But wait a minute.....why is it that you're suddenly awake at 4:00 in the morning in a cold sweat and panicking? Have you finally realized that you haven't a clue as to where to begin? Suddenly the reality starts creeping in that you need help? From the moment you and your partner agree to go down that blissful nuptial road, you should decide on whether or not you will hire a wedding planner.
Hiring A Certified Wedding And Event Planner?
Although hiring a Certified Wedding and Event Planner for your wedding can be a worthwhile decision, the truth is that many couples can't afford the cost involved. Some Planners charge by the hour, some by a flat rate and others charge 10% or more of the total cost of the wedding. In most cases it is money well spent but some would find the cost best utilized elsewhere. Others just like the idea of being in control of their own wedding plans. Whatever the case may be, you too can achieve your dream wedding without the help of a professional planner.
Things To Come....
Together we will explore topics, over the next few months, such as: Planning Your Engagement; Global Wedding Traditions; Etiquette; Budgeting; Venue Selections; Choosing The Ideal Officiant; Selecting a Photographer and Videographer; Choosing a Cake Vendor; Transportation Options ; Attire; Flowers and Decor; Food and Beverage Selections; Entertainment; Pulling All Of Your Wedding Plans Together; Designing Your Room Layout; Dealing With Special Situations; Bridal Shower; Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties; Arranging a Rehearsal Dinner; Preparing a Wedding Day Emergency Kit and so much more.
Don't Stress Out!
Regardless of how crazy some days might seem, you must remember to enjoy the planning process and don't stress out over the small things. It doesn't matter whether you spend $5,000 on your wedding or $150,000, there is no such thing as a wedding without some sort of glitch. It is all part of the process. Just keep reminding yourself that "there is no situation that can't be corrected, augmented or modified". Remember that you control the show, the show does not control you. If you keep this mindset, life will be so much easier and you won't be in a constant state of panic.
Even when it comes down to etiquette, (which we'll discuss in more detail later on), if you want to do it differently and it feels right then just do it. This is your day so put your unique stamp on it.
"Marriage is an Athenic weaving together of families, of two souls with their individual fates and destinies, of time and eternity--everyday life married to the timeless mysteries of the soul."
~ Thomas Moore
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It is interesting how every wedding can be unique, however, the elements are entirely the same. There are certainly differences in budgets, themes, size, food, colour schemes and so on, but essentially weddings are all comprised of the same aspects. There are engagements, gifts, ceremonies, vows, food, drinks, cakes, flowers, dancing, etc.. The only thing that may set one wedding apart from another are perhaps cultural differences and religious beliefs, and even then we seem to find a common ground in most cases. At the end of the day, the purpose is the same, the sentiments are the same and everyone involved have the same intentions. It is to celebrate the union of two people and the coming together of two families.
A wedding is supposed to be one of the most memorable and happiest days of one's life. The truth is, sometimes the road to your big and perfect day can often be filled with overwhelming uncertainty, stressful moments and a truck load of decision making.
The key to successful planning is to do your research, ask questions and don't be afraid to enlist the help of family members or trusted friends. You can't ask for better help than that of those who love and care for you the most. They will only have your best interests in mind. Also, they will feel involved and not left out.
Finally....
If you stick to your budget and follow a few helpful tips, not only will your wedding planning experience be a happy one, but you will also achieve the type of wedding you have always wanted and dreamed about.
