Did I forget to?

_Have you ever gone to bed, cuddled up with your remote and had that overwhelming feeling that there was something very important you are sure you forgot to do? Planning a wedding is the equivalent of that every day from the engagement date on. You are in a constant state of panic over every detail because you fear that guests will walk around judging every detail. In some ways you are right, some will. My advice on that has always been, you are letting them in on a wonderful part of your life, they should just be appreciative. The fact is, the people that love you will just share in your joy without picking your work apart.
With that said, keep you list of to do's in check. I rarely see a bride who is organized and on schedule. The plans they are trying to create are more than they have time for but they are not willing to downscale. This is generally when I get a call and have to put out a lot of fires. I do not mind at all but I feel terrible that they are so overwhelmed. This should be a calm, happy and memorable experience.
Sit down with your groom and discuss a budget, one that you can both live with. I assure you if you take out a loan for a wedding, your first married argument will likely be about money. Consult a planner even if you think you can't afford one. You may be pleasantly surprised that you can or that you can at least afford to hire them for some hectic details. Even if you do not hire a planner it will give you an idea of what you are facing. Stick to your budget, it will be the best thing you ever do for yourself. There are a number of wedding expenses that can be cut without affecting your big day.
Every bride wants the satisfaction of knowing she has included small details in her wedding to wow the guests. Let me say, you are your own worst critic. Make a check list with dates along side of the tasks. Keep a binder of every contract and receipt you receive. If you stick to just these two small organizational tools it will make a world of difference.
The one constant in my job is that every brides worry melts away as she walks down that aisle. It is a moment of absolute joy for me as well. The one thing you need to keep in the forefront of your mind is that you show the person you are about to marry that you have not forgotten what this day is about.

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