You’ve heard stories of “bridezillas” who have morphed from sweet young women into heartless dictators, barking out orders and demanding strict compliance.  It’s probably fair to blame at least some of this out-of-character behavior on the stress involved with wedding planning.

Putting together the wedding of your dreams can be so overwhelming that it can dampen what should be a joyful time in the lives of the bride, groom and their families.   Believe it or not, wedding planning CAN be fun.  A little organization, a firm budget and realistic expectations are all a couple needs to keep the time leading up to their wedding as joyful as the day itself.

An important step in wedding planning is setting the budget.  Knowing exactly what the budget is at the beginning can save a lot of disappointment later on.  Once your budget is set, stick to it.  Many young couples make the mistake of overspending, and start their marriage buried in debt. 

With your budget in mind, make a list of categories involved in your wedding planning.  Consider setting up a binder with a tab for each category.  Doing so ensures that all wedding information is easily accessible and all in one place.  Also, you can take the binder with you when you meet with various wedding service providers. 

Wedding planning categories may include the following:

  • Invitations
  • Gown
  • Tuxedo
  • Wedding party attire
  • Accommodations for out of town guests
  • Vows
  • Cake
  • Flowers
  • Rings
  • Reception

While some aspects of wedding planning can be accomplished within a few months of the wedding date, an early start is essential in some categories.  

Reception sites can be reserved several months to two years in advance.  Book your site as soon as your date is set. Doing so will help save the disappointment of missing out on your first choice.

A bride also needs to begin gown shopping as soon as possible.  Even if you select a gown “off-the-rack”, you will need to allow time for fittings and alterations.  Ideally, the gown should be ordered at least four months before the wedding.

There is no reason a bride should bear the weight of wedding planning by herself.  Family and members of the wedding party are often willing helpers who will make phone calls and run errands with the bride.

While some husbands-to-be are more involved in wedding planning than others, even the most reluctant grooms can be persuaded to help.  At a minimum, ask him to select all of the gifts for his groomsmen.  Also, hand over some decisions to him, such as selecting the cake.  That will be one less thing that you have to worry about.

No matter how organized of a planner you might be, there are sure to be last minute wrinkles that will need to be ironed out.  Expect this and, when it happens, your anxiety will be less than if you had expected perfection.

Don’t be a bridezilla!  It’s your wedding and your friends and family – often at great expense – are helping to make your day special. Be thankful, and act thankful. No bride wants to have her wedding party rolling their eyes at the sound of her voice.

Stay positive and upbeat and make fond memories of your wedding – and wedding planning – for everyone.