1. Get a manicure!
People are going to want to see that ring and you are going to want to show it off. Make sure your hands looks as great as that sparkly diamond.
2. Get a Pinterest (if you don’t have one already).
It’s great for wedding ideas, planning, and keeping everything in one spot! Also, make a board of poses you love for your photographer (me!) so we can make sure to fit some of them in.
3. Make a budget
Sit down with your parents and his parents and figure out how much each of them will be contributing so you know how much you have to work with. This is also a great time to figure out who will be taking care of what. Typically the grooms family pays for the rehearsal dinner and sometimes wants to contribute something extra as well (i.e. covering the flowers or the cake). But remember, this is your future family so make sure they don’t feel money pressure from you.
4. Pick your theme
Do you want classic romance or outdoor casual? There are a million directions you can go with this but for a few more ideas check out: http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/weddings/10-great-wedding-themes.htm
5. Pick your location
After (or while) you are figuring out your theme pick your location. Venues are often book quickly so you’ll want to nail down where your ceremony and/or reception are going to take place.
6. Pick your date
After you have a theme and venue this will often determine the date for you. If the date needs to be around a certain time then switch numbers 5 and 6 so that you can find venues that are open on your date of choice.
7. Start dress shopping!
Find a fun day where you, your mom, maybe your mother-in-law to be, and one or two of your girls can go try on dresses. Take pictures and try on dresses you might not like the style of – you will surprise yourself. Overall though make sure your dress fits with your theme – don’t settle on a full skirt ball gown if you are getting married on the beach etc. BUT remember don’t take too many people or the opinions of all of them might overwhelm the process a little.
8. Start pre-marital counseling.
Find someone in the area (ideally your officiate) that can help you prepare for the change from being two singles to one couple. They will be able to give you opportunities to talk about everything you might face as a new couple from finances to who’s going to take out the garbage.
9. Decide on your wedding party.
How many will each of you have? Who will serve as your maid of honor (she’ll be your right hand girl so pick someone you can count on)? Best man? Try sending them a card to ask them to serve in your wedding party or a fun gift to show them how special they are to you.
10. Book your COMPLEMENTARY engagement session with me!
These are photos you can use anywhere – on your save the dates, announcements, table numbers, guest book, throughout the wedding. It’s also a great time for us to hang out and become better friends so on that day I will know your style and just what you want to capture. For suggestions on what to wear see the next page! Can’t wait to work with you.
