Do consult with a wedding planner to help you along the way. You’ll learn that working with a planner will save you time & money; & will alleviate you of the stressful times ahead. Most planners offer free consultations.

Do begin to plan your wedding at least 6-12 months before the big day. You’ll be surprised :o to learn that the ceremony & reception site of your dreams may already booked by another client on the same day you had in mind.

Do give your attendees sufficient notice when planning a destination wedding so that they have plenty of time to make travel arrangements. 12-18 months is a good time frame. Save on time & postage by sending ‘save-the-date’ notes via e-vites (electronic invitations).

Do make pre-wedding day appointments with your hairstylist, manicurist, & make-up artist. This way, they can test styles & colors on you & you’ll know exactly what to expect. No wedding day stress or surprises. Some salons will include a trial-run in your wedding day package.

Do make your groom-to-be feel extra special by presenting him with a groom’s cake during the rehearsal dinner. Traditionally, the groom’s cake is a dark cake of fruit or chocolate, but pick whatever his favorite cake flavor is. Have the caked baked into a shape that represents the groom’s personality or a hobby of his.

Don’t get a body massage on the day of your wedding. Even though it may seem like a great way to relax, brides are usually nervous & have so much going on that day. If you insist on a massage, schedule it a day or two before the nuptials are to take place.

Don’t feel guilty about not being able to invite every single person that you & your groom-to-be know. People do understand the high-price tags associated with weddings. Sticking to a guest list of family & close friends will keep the costs down. You can host a post-wedding dinner at a later date for all those who were not able to attend.

Don’t forget to purchase gifts for your bridal party. Because bridesmaids cover the costs of their own dresses & travel, a token-gift of appreciation from you’ll mean a lot to them. While you’re out shopping for gifts, remember to pick up something special for the groom. Present the gift to your husband on the day of the wedding.

Don’t skip meals on the wedding day, especially breakfast or lunch. Between getting hair & make-up done & getting your dress bustled, eating will help stop irritability & nausea. If you get caught-up with greeting guests at the reception, at least you have something in your stomach.

Elaina M. Jorge is a Professional Wedding & Event Planner in Atlanta, GA. Born a natural, social event planning butterfly in New York City, Elaina rapidly grew fond of gathering family & friends every chance possible for every occasion. Birthday parties, Holidays, Dinners & Backyard BBQ’s were special to her & the invite lists were always long & the turnouts were always enormous. Before long, Elaina was the first one to be called upon in order to assist others with the planning of their functions. Because of her passion & expertise, the gatherings were sure to include fun people, great food, the best entertainment & festive decorations. Over the past few years, she has coordinated Baby Showers, Talent Shows, Ski Trips, Family Reunions & more. As the founder & CEO of Enjoy Yourself Events, LLC, Elaina has recently assisted with Fundraisers & Special Events in the Metro Atlanta Area. To learn more, visit www.EnjoyYourselfEvents.biz or call 404-274-8812.

Author authorizes permission for re-publication of article.