Tips For A Successful Wedding

I got married 10 years ago – on 6/7/08. In the years since my own wedding I’ve often though about how I’d do it differently, and I’ve also considered the things that worked for my wedding. Here are some things I’ve learned along the way, one tip for each year of my own marriage.
  1. Write your own vows.

While there is much to be said for the traditional, and using the vows that generations of people have used before you, writing your own vows allows you to make your own promises. Now is your chance to show your partner how you truly feel.

2. Be a team.

Don’t let wedding planning tear you apart. If you’re too stressed, take a break with the planning for a while or pass on the tasks to a willing parent or trusted best friend.

3. Buy the dress you can afford.

Wedding gowns can be really expensive. It might be a good idea to save some money on the gown that you can use for other aspects of the wedding. Labels like BLDHN and others have come out with phenomenal gowns for under $1000. Or check out other options: I got married in a gorgeous Stella McCartney cocktail dress that was 70% off.

4. Have a wedding that reflects who you are as a couple.

If you are into formal and fancy, then go for it. But if you and your future spouse are outdoorsy hikers, then get married in a field surrounded by wildflowers. This is your day!

5. Take time out to enjoy each other.

Weddings are big, social days and you might be tempted to go from person to person, checking on each of your guests, and forget why you’re really there. Take some time alone with your new spouse on your wedding day – step outside for some air, retreat to a private room, and just be together.

6. Don’t forget to eat.

The adrenaline will be high, but you need food! I know this from personal experience. Take time to eat breakfast, and lunch before the ceremony if you’re getting married in the afternoon. It’s something you can forget about in all the rush to get ready. You don’t want to get lightheaded in front of everyone as you say your vows!

7. Keep your wedding simple.

There are a lot of things you think you may want in your wedding, but when you’re up until midnight the day before filling mason jars with faux pearls, you might find yourself wishing you’d have gone for a simpler centerpiece option.

8. Do what makes you happy.

Invite who you want to be there, have the food you two enjoy the most, wear the suit or dress you feel best in. Sure you can let in others’ opinions, but the final choice is up to you and your partner. It is your wedding and nobody else’s.

9. Limit your choices.

Only check out a few caterers, or bakeries, or venues. Try on just a handful of dresses. Decision-making is stressful, so give yourself fewer decisions to make. I promise your wedding will be amazing no matter what.

10. Have fun.

I know, duh, right? But seriously, you might forget. This is a party all about you! You get to celebrate the fact that you found the one person out of 7 billion people that you want to spend your life with. That’s pretty incredible. Enjoy it!

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