1) Be nice to your bridesmaids. Consider that each one is their own person, and that they don’t want to have to buy, or be seen in a poofy, hot pink dress. Let each of them pick a cut that suits them, whether it is strapless, or halter, this will make sure they are comfortable, and are actually likely to wear the dress again. It’s also great to choose a color (or two) and let them choose the shade. As long as it all compliments the over all palette, the shade they wear should be their choice, and one that compliments their complexion.

2) Be firm with your guest list. Yes, your cousin’s new girlfriend is all their hype at the moment, but if they are known to go through girls without a second thought, there is no need to pay for her meal and seat when you hardly know her. Every guest costs you money, so don’t be guilted into inviting someone that you don’t want there. It’s your day, and your money, so don’t have any regrets.

1) Don’t invite too many guests. You will pay per head, so consider this when making your guest list. Don’t invite someone out of guilt, since you will pay for their meal, and their attendance in the venue. Consider that all of the costs, for seating, food, drinks, and more will be multiplied by how many guests you invite, so be cautious!

2) Use proper postage. Many invitations are too thick, over sized, or in an odd shape, and this means more postage. Be sure you take one envelope to your post office to be sure you know what the correct postage is, then apply it to each invitation. A normal stamp won’t cut it, and you may be flooded with “return to sender” “insufficient postage” in your mailbox.

3) Don’t do anything last minute. This can apply to every aspect of planning, but particularly when it comes to the common mistake brides have: undergoing a beauty treatment, or crazy diet, to look great for their big day. This results in orange skin and break outs!

- Spending without a budget. Whether it is just out of excitement of wedding planning, or splurging on something you must have (but don’t really need), spending without the guideline of a budget is dangerous. This is the quickest way to spend more money than you planned on, or have to. Be sure you arrange all your finances before you spend anything for the wedding.

- Ordering your gown too late. If you order from a designer, you will need to give several months notice to be sure it is done in time for your big day. You will also need to have it early, to help match things like your bouquet, veil etc. Not to mention several fittings. Order it nice and early so you’re not stressing last minute on the biggest detail of your wedding.

- Booking too late. If you are booking hotel rooms for your out of town guests, you will have a hard time getting deals, or even rooms in general, if its too late.