Planning & Preparation for the Bride & Groom
by Michael C. Barnes

You've taken the first step and asked the question, or else youve taken the
second step and accepted the proposal. Either way, youve taken the steps
toward an exciting journey that will lead you toward marital bliss! While
the destination is worthwhile, the path will test you and your future spouse
more than you might expect. The path I am speaking of is called Wedding
Planning and Preparation and it can be a challenge. It has tested the
stamina of many, but if your prepare, and arm yourself with the tools you
will need, you can reach your destination and achieve your ultimate goal
saying your vows without worry.

Now I know you are thinking, what makes me such an expert? Well, I learned
the hard way that signing contracts with vendors without doing your research
will result in a wedding that is below your expectations. Additionally, I
have also learned that seeking a resolution in the aftermath of a wedding
gone wrong can be time consuming and emotionally draining. If you wish to
learn more about my experience you can read about it on my web-site.
(http://www.geocities.com/mcbarnes_1970/) So without further delay, lets
get planning!

Make the List

Not sure of how much is involved in planning your wedding? The best thing
you can do is to begin by making a list of everything you will want.
Flowers? Check! Cake? Check! White Doves? Hmmm Keep in mind that
everything has a price attached to it, so if it isnt something that is
important - leave it off the list. Once you know what you will need to
create your wedding it will be easier to make a budget for it.

The Photo Book

What do you want your wedding to be? Will it be a huge affair, or a small
party? Will she wear a designer gown, or wear off-the rack? How about the
wedding rings? The bridal bouquet? Its all in the details! The important
thing to keep in mind is it is easier to show someone a photo than to
describe it. Buy a scrapbook and if you find photos of what you want, put
them in it for later use. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words.

The Planning Book

As you prepare to plan you should set up a planning notebook. Create
separate tabs for each vendor you are planning to use and insert all
details, photos and contracts you sign. This one book will make it easier
to keep track of everything you are planning and preparing. It will serve
as the central reference point, and will become the scripture of which your
wedding will begin and end with. This will also make documentation easier
(see below).

Locate Vendors

This is the key element of good planning. Local wedding shows are also a
great place to meet prospective vendors. Talk to them, look over their
products and try some samples be sure to spend some time at the cake
vendors - so you can get some ideas of what they have to offer. Ask your
friends and colleagues who they used, and if theyd use them again.

Do Your Research

It is vital that you do your research before you sign a contract or put
down a deposit. How do you research? Go to your local Better Business
Bureau (www.betterbusinessbureau.com) and check out the rating of the
business. Do they have any unresolved complaints? More important, what is
the word of mouth about the business? Try checking on online wedding
resources (such as Wedding USA or The Knot) and ask the brides in the
message boards what they have heard.

Negotiate Contracts

Be sure to read contracts before signing them. Look for clauses that
forfeit your deposits for cancellations more than a month away from the
event, or other unreasonable timeframes. If a vendor or service provider
will not alter contracts to stipulate specific service needs for your event,
be cautious.

Consider a Coordinator

If you have the budget, you may want to consider a professional wedding
planner and coordinator. They may have contacts in the different areas you
need such as bakery, florist, catering, etc. and may be able to receive
discounts because they are well connected in your area. If anything, it may
be one less thing to worry about on your wedding day.

Documentation

I know planning a wedding can be tedious. Working with vendors can be
frustrating, so it is important that you document all interactions. Did you
request changes to be made to the cake decorations? When did you do it?
Who did you talk to? It is important to keep track of these things in case
what you ordered isnt what you received. Not only are you the bride or
groom, you are also a customer! Proper documentation will show you mean
business and you are expecting the vendor to provide everything they are
being paid for.

With the right attitude, attention to detail, and use of the right tools of
the trade you can have the wedding of your dreams. Happy planning!