A lasting marriage means crafting a delicate dance of subtle nuances and it all begins with the planning process….and it means getting some “professional help” or at least advice when it comes to all behind the scenes tips and tricks used by the experts to ensure your big day is a success and just as you envisioned it (without breaking the bank).

Plan Ahead:  Make sure you have plans in place before you start planning. While you don’t want to be difficult, you do want to be thorough and precise. You should be prepared to spell out (even in writing) what you want and what you expect and go over it with all those who will be orchestrating your big day. Remember, while this is a moment in time you’ve always dreamed of, it basically “just another day at the office” for those in the business. That’s not to say, they won’t work hard to help you plan the perfect party, but it’s their job to do their job and yours to do yours. We also suggest hiring someone who is enthusiastic and has a passion for planning to give you a heads up and a hand…and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Keep It Simply: Sure you want to step out in style, but remember that often times less is more. Unless you hire a planner, dress modestly and “casually” but neatly when you meet with vendors. Remember, just like you are assessing you potential vendors, they are also assessing you, and some may even present you with services and prices they think you can afford, starting with the highest, if they believe it’s within your reach and your budget.

Define Your Style: Your wedding should be all about you, but don’t expect the experts (unless you’ve hired a professional planner) to help you define your style….that’s your job. Keep in mind that trends are trendy for a reason, because they work and lots of soon to be weds love them. If you want something truly distinctive and unique you will have to create it and pass that information along to your vendors, otherwise they will guide you to what’s current, tried and true and what works.

Keep Calm and Plan On: Remember to keep your emotions in check. No one wants to work with a stressed out, overbearing bride, MOB , etc. They more you stress, the more you stress out your “hired help” and in the long run that may cost you. So, you may want to put someone (who can keep their cool in charge) or keep your feelings on the table and simply stay cool, calm and collected during the planning process. Remember relaxed brides enjoy the ride and get the best treatment.

Splurge A Little: Go ahead treat yourself. While you may want to be frugal when it comes to your dress, there are some things you definitely don’t want to skimp on and those include food, entertainment and photography. Sure you want to look fabulous for your wedding day, but you can find something just as suitable off the rack, especially with the guidance of a seasoned fashion professional, which gives you more financial flexibility for other areas. Yes, your guests will oooohhhh and ahhhhh as you walk down the aisle, but it’s the “other stuff” that they’ll remember, like the fabulous food and how much fun they had…after all, that’s what they’re “paying for”. And, when it comes to photography, you’ll want a creative and seasoned pro who knows how to get all the right shots at all the right moments

Make Age Appropriate Choices: Younger couples have more flexibility when it comes to contemporary choices….while more mature brides and grooms should make sure their event is eclectic but chic and sophisticated. Also, make sure your string quartet isn’t belting out your favorite pop tunes and that your DJ is playing tunes everyone, from every age group can enjoy. And, if you’ve invited little ones to the festivities, you may even consider including the hokey pokey to your play list.

Approach with an Open Mind: The best weddings are those that don’t conform to the norms. Sure you may want exotic Hawaiian flowers but are they really appropriate or available for a November celebration. Consider working with the experts to find the most suitable selections for your spectacular soiree and keep it within reason and within season…and be open to options that may require you to think outside the box.

Try To Stay Under Budget: Regardless of the number you’ve come up with, you’ll want to ensure you save/ put something aside “just in case”. Consider unexpected wants and needs, tips, taxes, etc.

Invest In The Future: Lots of wedding venues book up pretty quickly…months, even a year or two in advance, so it’s no surprise that lots of couples are booking WAY in advance. Just remember that while this ensures you’ll get the location of your dreams, it doesn’t necessarily mean they will necessarily still be in business. Though it’s not likely that this will happen, the longer in advance you plan, the greater the risk, which is why it’s strongly advised you buy wedding insurance. You may not get all your money back; you will be entitled to a substantial portion of it.

A Little Help From Your “Friends”:  Don’t’ buy the media hype….and keep in mind that many of the online DIY projects that inspired you were actually crafted by professionals…so, if there’s something special you’re absolutely “in love” with you may want to pay for it…remember you get what you pay for.