There are many answers to this question, it all depends on who you ask. We all dream about our perfect wedding but each of us may hold a different view of what makes it perfect.
The first thing to do when planning a wedding is to realize that nothing is ever going to be perfect, true perfection is unattainable. There is bound to be something that will not turn out quite as planned. But that is ok, you can still have a beautiful and memorable wedding!
We all have to remember that we cannot control everything and everyone, and we cannot be expected to. Yes, you want to try and be prepared for things, but don't stress over it!
The best way to lessen stress in planning your wedding is to do it your way! Remember that your wedding is just that, YOUR wedding! Do what you and your groom want not what others think you should do.
If you have been dreaming of the big formal wedding with 400 guests and your groom shares this dream, (and you can afford it) go for it! But if you would prefer a more intimate event, by all means, do that! Just don't do something only to please or impress someone else, do what makes YOU (and your groom) happy!
Work on making your day "perfect" for the two of you and not for anyone else, that is the best way to start planning for a "perfect" wedding and start a wonderful new life together!
Now once you and your groom have the concept thought out, talk with both sets of parents and come up with a budget to work from. Then go out and get started! It is never too early to start planning. The sooner you start, the less you will have to worry about the closer it gets to the big day. Make a wedding notebook and/or folder and pull pictures out of magazines (and look online for ideas too) of all the things you like and make notes about what you would like to have for your wedding.
Then start shopping locations, the best locations are those that can offer space for the ceremony and reception. Be weary of the "all inclusive" facility, though these places may save you money but they often have many restrictions. Wherever you decide to have your ceremony, just be sure they can give you what you want! After all, it is your day and you should be able to have it your way!
Once you have the venue, start shopping for your other vendor services. Many vendors will book an average of 6-9 months in advance of a date. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to find what you need and want and then you may end up having to settle or even pay more. The best money saving tip I can give you is just to give yourself plenty of time to find what you need and want and to get the best services at the best price.
Good Luck & Happy Planning
"Having a background in many aspects of the wedding industry I have seen a lot of weddings and worked with a lot of vendors. I have seen mistakes some brides make in trying to save a few dollars. I have seen a few vendors take advantage of unsuspecting and uneducated brides. I have seen some of the good the bad and the ugly of weddings" Check out our e-book "The Definitive Wedding Planning Guide" for more tips and ideas for planning your wedding. http://www.southsidebride.com/ebook.htm
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