| We all know that planning a wedding is hard work, | | | | you meet with, and if possible ask them for |
| unless you're just having a family affair at home, | | | | written estimates. Dealing with vendors is |
| it takes a lot of time and patience. If you think | | | | definitely were most of your time will be spent, |
| you have what it takes to plan your own | | | | make sure you get the most out of every |
| wedding, I have some suggestions. Start by | | | | meeting . Write down questions you have for the |
| making your budget. This is the first and a very | | | | different vendors so that you don't forget |
| important step. Unless you are rich or have rich | | | | anything. After deciding on which vendors to use, |
| parents, you should have a realistic budget. Make | | | | make sure you get a written contract from |
| a list of all the things you'll need for your wedding, | | | | every one of them, it is important that you read |
| you can keep one on an Excel spreadsheet, make | | | | your contract, and make sure you look at the |
| a table on Microsoft Word or buy wedding | | | | cancellation policy, tipping, down payment |
| planning software which you can probably find at | | | | information and final payment information. |
| an office supply store for less than $30.00. | | | | If you are on a small budget, search online for |
| If you are not sure as to what you need, look | | | | your dress, invitations, decor and wedding |
| for a list online, try wedding blogs or other | | | | accessories, you can find a larger selection and |
| wedding related sites. Identify your priorities, | | | | most of the time lower prices. However, when |
| every bride is different, one might want amazing | | | | buying your dress online make sure you |
| flowers and will compromise with a smaller cake | | | | understand the return policy, in case the dress is |
| and another might want a $5,000 designer dress | | | | not what you expected. And finally, have a friend |
| and could care less about the venue. Whatever | | | | (maid of honor) or family member help you |
| your priorities are put them on the top of your | | | | through the planning, it's always good to have a |
| list. Make a column on your spreadsheet called | | | | second set of eyes and ears. Planning your special |
| estimated amount, this is what you plan to spend | | | | day can be stressful, If you just don't want to |
| on each item. Start contacting local vendors, | | | | deal with it, consider hiring a wedding planner, |
| caterers, florists, venues, bakers, etc. Talk to | | | | even if it's just part time or only for the day of |
| family and friends and have them recommend if | | | | the wedding. Remember that your wedding day |
| they know of any. Make notes of all the vendors | | | | should only bring tears of joy. |