Getting married is a time full of magic and wonder, but it can also bring on more stress than you have ever experienced. From the cake to the flowers to the venues for your wedding and reception, there’s so much to cover that it is easy to feel overwhelmed. The tips provided below will help you to plan your wedding in an organized and stress-free manner.

Marriages between people of different faiths are common nowadays, but it helps to discuss how this will affect your marriage, in-laws and children, before you marry. Of course, by this time, the two of you should have it worked out how things will operate on that level, but getting the families on the same page may be more difficult.

Remember to consider how you would like the alcohol at your reception served, and how much it will cost. Having an open bar can be very expensive if it stays open for hours. If holding the wedding at an outside venue, they may have alcohol serving options available that can control costs.

Wedding Dress

Your wedding dress could be one of the most expensive items included in your wedding, but there are ways to save money on this purchase. Consider looking into dresses that are not designated as wedding dresses. You could try a bridesmaid dress, and it would be cheaper than an actual wedding dress. Even if you need the dress to be altered, it will probably be less expensive than buying a wedding dress.

Buying wedding gowns online can save you hundreds of dollars, but be sure to do it very early to allow you time to get your gown altered when you receive it. I spent $100 on the gown I purchased for my wedding, but spent another $200 for altering it. Keep in mind any additional costs, and include it in your budget.

You don’t have to overwhelm yourself with an expensive and high calorie cake; contact your local specialty bakeries and boutiques and inquire about getting smaller, individual portions made instead. Some specialty bakeries also ship fresh, low-cal cupcakes and healthy fare, like gluten-free options if you so desire.

Consider how many people will be dancing at your reception when you look at the dance floors of your possible reception venues. You don’t want to have dancers crashing into seated guests or knocking over the dessert table, so ensure you have adequate space available. If necessary, move some chairs and tables out of the way to make more room.

Brides who love fashion will perhaps want to add a dash of sparkle to their bouquet; think rhinestones, Swarovski crystals or even some diamonds. You can do this by applying some crystals, costume jewelry, or maybe even an heirloom piece. Make sure that the stones of your choice coordinate well with your ensemble; have consistency in your arrangement of colors, size and cut.

This person should be able to tote around all of your things for you. They may be able to help you as you gather the family for a group shot.

For a destination wedding, one wonderful present for your guests is a basket brimming with vacation goodies delivered to each room. Useful items you will want to include would be tourist maps, sunglasses, hats, disposable cameras and brochures of fun places they could visit while in the area. Furthermore, a Zagat guide or other culinary guide is useful for any gift basket of this theme!

Ask a close friend or family member if they’d be interested in becoming ordained online to be able to officiate your ceremony. This can be a wonderful way to honor someone special in your life, and to make them an important part of your big day. You should check the legality of this option in your area before you make a decision.

Did you dream as a little girl about the fabulous over-the-top wedding you’d have some day? Do you still wish to have a spectacular, magical night? So much is involved with planning and preparing for the wedding that there is hardly time to enjoy it! The above advice should be a boon to you while you plan your wedding day, and provide you a sense of relief.