Planning the Celebration
by Barbara Patinkin

TIPS ON PLANNING YOUR WEDDING 

1. Create your budget. This planning will allow you to know which vendors you will or will not be able to work with.

Being realistic about the amount you can spend allows for unknown possibilities. The reason most couples go over budget, is because   they do not allow for financial changes in their plans.

2. The next step in planning your wedding is to select your venue.

If you have lots of out-of-town relatives and friends, find a location that is easy for them to find and get to. The ideal location can be a hotel or bed-and-breakfast where guests can stay, and where the wedding and reception are all in the same building or within walking distance. It will also cut down or eliminate the cost for transportation between venues. 

3. Make arrangements with the person you wish to conduct your ceremony. Schedules for these individuals are often booked a year in advance. Make your ceremony meaningful and decide early.

4. Choose an invitation that reflects your style – formal, traditional, contemporary or unique. If your reception is at a different venue   you will need to include a reception card with details of time and place.

5. This is a once in a lifetime event. If you are on a budget, make sure to splurge on at least one item. You do not want to look back regretting not hiring your favorite bakery, florist, DJ, dress designer. One splurge, will not hurt your budget.

6. When planning your wedding, enjoy your time. Stay calm, plan early and have fun.

May your wedding be all that you wish. All health and happiness!