How to Make Your Wedding Day Perfect and Planned

Weddings are undoubtedly joyous occasions, but let's face it: they can also feel like a landmine of potential disasters waiting to happen. Every couple deserves the day of their dreams, and by taking a few simple preliminary steps you can ensure that your day goes off without a hitch. Be Flexible With Your Dates rnWaiting four to five months before your desired wedding month to book your venue and services can save a surprising amount of money--sometimes up to half the expected budget. While most couples book a year in advance, wedding professionals often try to fill upcoming dates that are not booked and thus, will generally offer lower rates. Know Which Corners to Cut Sit down with your partner and discuss where to invest the majority of your budget ahead of time. For example, if you have a photographer friend by all means accept their offer to capture the big day--but make sure you've seen their portfolio ahead of time and know what to expect. The same applies to gowns, decorations, and catering. Decide where to employ a professional, and where the DIY method can be applied. Arrange Transportation Ahead of Time Nothing deters from enjoying an event like scrambling to organize rides for guests and yourself after the festivities. Make arrangements ahead of time with a trusted cab company for necessary transportation following the reception. Some companies, like Yellow Cab, realize that reliable transportation is a must. Especially after such an important event like a wedding reception. Comfort is Key It's easy to devote all your energy to making sure your guests are taken care of, but be sure to prepare for your own comfort, as essentially you'll be "on" all day. Pack necessary snacks and personal toiletries ahead of time. Bridal consultant Elise Enloe tells bridalguide.com, "Break in your wedding shoes! It's the most overlooked piece of advice that I give to brides, moms and attendants. Why do women think they can be on their feet for six to eight hours in a pair of shoes they've never worn and not end up with painful blisters?" Make a Checklist for the Wedding Party Misunderstandings and setbacks often occur due to crossed wires and uncertainty regarding specific times and tasks. Draw up a checklist and make sure each member of the wedding party has a copy to refer to; that way everyone knows what's required of them on the big day. Remember, your wedding is a time to celebrate the ones you love--which should include you! Allow yourself and your partner little breaks throughout the day to rest and regroup if the stress gets to be too much, and don't be afraid to call on members of the wedding party, as well as attendants, to assist.