Wedding Planning

  Is it that special time?  Have you been choosen to be a planner, have you been hired to be, or are you thinking about doing it?

  Let me see if I can help you with some tips.  This page is a list of the things you can do ahead of time to keep the wedding moving according to your plan - you are the planner.

  There are a lot of things to keep track of:  schedule, the wedding dress, the invitations, wedding speech, cake, decorations, caterers, florists, limosine drivers, hotel reservations, the bride's dress, and many more.  Let's look at a few tips for a smooth day:

 Invitations

  It is said that the invitations should be sent at least  four months in advance.   Yes, four.  This sounds outrageous, but don't underestimate the power of advance planning on maximizing the amount of people who can attend.  Any sooner, and it's too far out.  Later, and you risk them having priot commitments.

Have a speech to give?  Want to know the secret to giving a perfect one?  Click here.

Choosing the Date

  Some people would say that for a summer wedding, June or July is perfect.  For winters, December or January.  When picking the special date, as the planner, it is your job to investigate to the extent possible, conflicts that will prevent people from attending.  It's okay to ask the bride and groom to provide you with dates of their family's anniversarys, birthdays, vacations, etc., so you can find the date with the least conflict.

Videos & Photos

  These days, a video can have just as much impact later down the road as the photos.  They are both highly recommended.  I would advise hiring seperate people to do each function, if it's within the couple's budget.

The Wedding Speeches

  Don't underestimate people's fear of public speaking.  It may seem like you're sticking your head in people's business, but make sure their speech is planned in advance, and offer resources if they are having trouble finding something to say.  I would recommend this site about wedding speeches for some great examples.

  Also, you might be interested in some tips for writing your own wedding speech.

  NEXT:  The honeymoon and the budget.  Continue on to PAGE 2