“A wedding is a party, not a performance. If at the end of the day you are married to the one you love, then everything went perfectly.”
Give Yourself Time
The average couple begins planning their wedding 12-16 months out. Giving yourself extra time really helps to keep stress levels down. It gives you the ability to get tons of stuff done early and time to save for the things that you may really want. You only get to plan your wedding once, so enjoy it!
Don’t Get Caught Up In “Perfection”
Through my years of working in the wedding industry, I’ve learned many things. One thing that is always at the forefront of my mind, is that nothing, and no one is perfect. I know this might sound scary coming from someone who plans and coordinates events, but the truth is…things happen. Truthfully, some of the best moments are the ones that aren’t planned. It’s the candid moments that make life real. Embrace the unexpected, and don’t let the image of perfection taint the big picture. After all, this is only the beginning :)
Learn How To Respectfully Say “No”
Situations will inevitable arise, where you will have to say “no.” Just remember to smile as you speak, keep from getting emotional, and if you’re really adverse to confrontation, rehearse your talking points. Be thankful for their suggestion or recommendation, and politely decline. Remember, this is your day! Your family, friends and wedding professionals are all here for you.
Make Wedding Visits Fun!
Sure you’re talking business, but why make everything so serious all the time?! Have fun with these things! It’s easy for things to get heavy pretty quick when discussing serious details and selections, but it’s important to keep things light. I try to make all my visits with clients as fun and exciting as possible. Ask any of my couples!
Prioritize and Compromise
Let’s face it – a wedding is a big expense, and well, we’re not all made of money. Choose the few things that are really important to each, or both of you. Is it a specific vendor? Or an additional food station? There may be things that you’ll have to give up in order to obtain the things that you really want. Be flexible and remember to have fun.
Rain, Rain, Go Away
Planning an outdoor ceremony, but Mother Nature isn’t on your side? Well, you have one of two choices, 1) get upset and let it ruin your day, or 2) say “it is what it is,” and move on. I know it sounds harsh, seeing that you’ve been dreaming about this beautiful outdoor ceremony for over a year, but the fact of the matter is, no one can do a darn thing to change the weather. Believe me, I feel terrible when I see tears welling up in the couple’s eyes – mostly because I can’t fix the forecast. A spelling error on a place card, I can fix. An additional seat needed at table 10, I can fix. But this, this is one thing that is out of my control. My advice, remind yourself that there is always the possibility of rain, so if it does happen, you’re not caught off guard. And hey, who said rain is always a bad thing? At times, rain gives some of the most magical photos. 
Accept That You Can’t Please Everyone
I hate to say it, but it’s the truth – you cannot make everyone happy. Someone will always be hot, while someone else is cold. Of course it is important to think of and accommodate your guests, but there is a limit. Remember that this is your day; make it about you.
Eat!!
Don’t forget to eat! You’re nerves are sure to be all over the place, but that is no excuse. Make sure to fill your tummy with a hearty breakfast and some snacks along the way. Going through the day on an empty stomach isn’t helpful in dealing with all the excitement.
Do You
Yes, Pinterest is fabulous, but don’t let it take away from what you really want. Sure it’s helpful to get ideas and pull your vision together, but don’t let it make the vision for you. No one knows your vision better than yourself, so trust your own style and taste. Paint your own unique and special picture.
Popography
Hope you found these wedding tips helpful!
Hugs and Kisses,
Mallory
