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Has planning the wedding left you feeling
overwhelmed? Here are eight tips to get yourself
organized!
Ask any newlywed couple -- even couples that have been
married for a long time -- and they'll all say the same
thing thing: The key to a successful wedding (read: one
that goes smoothly, without any major glitches) is in
the planning. Small things go wrong at every
wedding. But keep in mind that you can save yourself
from migraine headaches and crying spells by making a
plan and simply sticking with it. These simple tips will
help you take some of the stress away (or at least
minimize it!).
Lose the Laziness
One mistake that many couples make is basking in the
glow of their engagement until 4-6 months before their
wedding date. Then they try to cram all of the planning
into a too-short period of time. Of course you
should just sit back and be thrilled about your
engagement for a while, but then you've gotta get
cracking!
Buy a Calendar or Datebook
Once you determine your wedding date, set specific dates
by which you want to get things accomplished. For
example, you got engaged in June, and your wedding date
is April 24. On August 31, mark in that you want to have
the ceremony location and reception hall reserved. Try
to get as much done as possible in the first few months
so that the last few months won't be hectic.
Set Aside Time
Choose a day of the week when you'll focus on the
wedding details, or several days if you're pressed for
time. Sit down together and plan. This eliminates
confusion -- i.e., the groom thinking he's supposed to
call and check on hall rentals when the bride already
has it narrowed down to what will suit their needs.
Share Duties
This is the best way to get things done. You both
should be involved every step of the way. Make a list of
details to be taken care of, then divide the list in
half. Each of you choose what you want to do. This will
make grooms want to be involved, instead of
making them feel like they have to help. Sure,
your sweetie probably isn't concerned with exactly which
flowers you carry. And maybe you're not picky about what
tuxedos he and the guys wear (or maybe you are!). But
involving your husband-to-be will make him feel that
it's his wedding, too -- something he helped
plan, not just something he has to show up at. Which
brings us to...
Talk, Talk, Talk
We can't stress this enough. Be sure that if you're
sharing duties that you're also sharing the details.
It's okay to take care of certain things by yourself,
just make sure you're telling each other about it so the
caterer isn't contracted with twice!
Be Flexible
Okay. So you really didn't want the groom/ushers in
those tails and top hats. And maybe he doesn't want the
cake to be lemon with pecan icing (!). Each of you is
going to want things that the other doesn't care for,
but flexibility is a must. Be willing to bend. If you
really object to something, let your objection be duly
heard and noted. Just give the other person a chance to
explain why he/she really wants to arrive at the
reception in a hot tub in the back of the limo.
Details, Contracts, and Negotiations
When dealing with wedding professionals (caterers,
florists, etc.), be sure to clarify all the details and
your expectations during the initial discussions. Make
sure you get a contract specifically stating dates,
times, and locations. Be sure to include what you feel
is appropriate dress, and what you feel isn't. Spell out
everything. Try to negotiate the best deal for
goods and services, but don't sell yourself short on
important things just to get a better price.
Most importantly, be sure to read the fine print
on every contract before you sign it, and make sure
you're aware of cancellation policies and fees. Also ask
if there's a grace period to cancel just in case you
change your mind or something happens and you need to
postpone the wedding (you never know).
Check out our complete guide to
contracts.
Stay Organized
This one's pretty obvious! The more organized you are,
the less chance there is that something will go wrong.
Buy a notebook, and keep all your wedding information in
it. Receipts, contracts, ideas -- everything. You might
also want to get notebooks for your maid of
honor/bridesmaids and the best man. Put info such as
dates, times, locations, and duties. This will keep
everyone organized as well, and minimize the chance of
someone missing a fitting date or rehearsal time.
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