Wedding planning can put quite a strain on both brides and grooms. It can seem that everyone has an opinion about how your big day should go. This article will give you some great unbiased advice on how to make it through with your sanity.

You can save money by choosing an off season wedding date. Most weddings are between June and August. During this time, wedding venues will be more expensive. If you need to book during this time, make sure you book far in advance to get the best deal.

Wedding dresses can be very expensive. If you are not looking for a traditional, princess type ballgown, consider looking into other types of dresses. You could try a bridesmaid dress, and it would be cheaper than an actual wedding dress. You can choose to alter the dress and add your own flair, while still saving plenty of money.

Think about wedding transportation. Try having taxis and limos available for people who don’t have transportation after the wedding. Transportation is also helpful for those who have drank too much at your wedding.

If you feel as though it is wasteful to pay hundreds of dollars for a cake that will have a lot left over, consider a smaller bakery to create a smaller cake that will cost less and be more personal. Some specialty bakeries also ship fresh, low-cal cupcakes and healthy fare, like gluten-free options if you so desire.

You need to provide the DJ at your wedding with some songs you want to hear, but you also need to give him a list of all the songs you do not want to hear on that day. Find a song that you enjoyed in the past. No matter what it is, make sure the DJ knows so that you don’t have any unpleasant surprises playing at the wedding.

Ensure that all guests understand the scheduling of events by emailing everyone involved an itinerary of events; include maps for those who may be unfamiliar with the area. Let the guests know what they need to come to, so they can get there when you want them there.

You can even ask one of your friends if you can borrow some jewelry for the big wedding day. This can allow you to look the way you want to and add an element of charm to your wedding.

Table centerpieces at your wedding might have a tremendous budgetary and aesthetic impact. Instead of buying a centerpiece that is so big it covers the whole table, use something simple. Simple centerpieces help keep the table from feeling cluttered and make it easier for guests to talk to each other.

Flowers that are abundant in your state during specific seasons will not be easily available in climates that are tropical and humid or cooler and dry like the Mediterraneans. Contact florists near the destination and you can find out which flowers are available.

If your reception does not involve a sit down meal, hire furniture instead of traditional tables. Lounge chairs, chaises and comfortable sectional pieces will help encourage interaction between your guests. Perhaps you could create different lounges and add plush seating to allow your guests to relax.

As far as bridesmaids go, select the gowns that will be worn before asking them to be a part of your wedding party. Bridesmaids can then offer their input as well, and you can try to accommodate them as best as possible. Select something affordable that matches your wedding them, and which your bridesmaids will love. This ensures that you have a great wedding without any hurt feelings or misunderstandings.

You should definitely consider writing your wedding vows yourself. While it may be easier to copy from a different source remember that no one knows your future spouse better than you. Doing so adds a personal touch to your big day. By all means, look for inspiration in different places, but make the words your own.

One money saving idea is to consider alternatives in lieu of flowers arrangements. For flower girls, you can use ribbons for a more economical and simply elegant solution to floral wreathes. You can bring in silk flowers to the ceremony as well. Silk flowers are not only more affordable, they can be kept forever. You can also use it at your reception too.

Whether you are booking a band or a DJ, do your research ahead of time. Check references before you hire. Also, get a legal contract in place. This is important, as you want the music for your wedding to be perfect.

When you decide on decorations for your wedding, especially floral arrangements, try to keep your venue in mind. For example, a tall, complicated arrangement may get toppled over on a windy day. You may also need to think about any special equipment needed to secure decorations at certain venues such as a park or beach.

Be careful of rain. If your wedding is going to be outside, you need to think of what you’re going to do if rain were to happen. Even if you believe the day will be beautiful, it is best to be prepared.

Before you start making purchases for your wedding, obtain a rewards-based credit card to use for the services. Weddings cost a lot, so it is a good idea to use a card that offers miles or other good incentives. Put all of your wedding purchases on the card and watch the rewards accumulate quickly.

As the bride, you’re not going to want tan lines. Nothing would look worse on your big day than having tan lines from your bikini top showing on an open back dress.

Congratulations on tackling your fears and reading this far. If you’re not already scared off, it’s time to plan your wedding. Your wedding belongs to the two of you. Use the tips you’ve just read to have a great wedding.

By