Is there anything more stressful–yet very exciting–than planning a wedding for yourself or a loved one? You are in the best place for planning. The article below is a compilation of expert tips and tricks to help you have the wedding of your dreams.

Never go on starvation diets just to fit into a dress. Like a fighter getting ready for a big fight, you will wind up light headed from dehydration by rushing to lose a little weight. Avoid doing that and fainting before you say your vows! Instead, choose a dress that has a corset back that can be taken in and out as needed on the big day.

Of course, the most important aspect of getting married is choosing the right intended! Don’t make this choice in a hurry. Make a detailed list of the things that endear this human to you, and likewise the things that you may not appreciate so much.

A great gift for your guests at a destination wedding is a basket that you have delivered to their room full of vacation goodies. Include gifts that are sure to be useful while on location at the wedding, like sunglasses, tourist maps, disposable cameras, hats, and pamphlets that detail all of the best attractions in the local area. Be sure to include a local restaurant guide and possibly some coupons to make dining easy.

Providing a printed itinerary, as well as an online one, will make it easier for guest to know the when, where and what activities are planned. Include events such as the rehearsal, dinners, fittings and anything else they might need to appear at.

Once you have your dress paid off and all ready, it is wise to leave it at the store so it can be properly stored until the big day. Keeping it at home could result in staining or wrinkles. By storing it at the shop, you will ensure that you get it after it is freshly pressed and hung.

Craigslist is a good outlet for locating local talent for your wedding. Before you hand over any money, both bride and groom should meet with them ahead of time, in person.

Silk Flowers

Of the various kinds of flowers you can choose for your wedding day, silk flowers offer a unique and practical option. You can buy your silk flowers well in advance of the wedding whereas fresh flowers have to be selected, arranged and delivered on the wedding day, which can be more stressful and problematic.

If the groom and bride love to travel, try to look for decorations that incorporate that particular theme. The printed items, such as invitations and thank you cards, can have the look of old maps or vintage postcards. An interesting travel bag decorated with colored bows and ribbons can be set up as a decoration alongside the guestbook or pictures of the bride and groom.

Children who are participating in your ceremony should have comfortable clothes. Select loose, soft, natural fabrics that allow children to move around without any discomfort. The children’s new shoes should be broken in and comfortable. With an entire ensemble of comfortable clothes, the children can put their energy into their designated roles and leave the outfits alone.

If you’re not planning on serving a meal at your reception, think about renting furniture instead of using the standard tables. Your guests will be more likely to interact if they are in a comfortable setting with lounges and chaises. Comfortable and inviting chairs allow your guests to feel welcome and relaxed, which creates a nice atmosphere at your wedding.

Do some homework before meeting your wedding planner. Create a look book or board with fabric swatches, magazine clippings and other interesting items. You might want to include pictures from magazines, photos, and lyrics from your favorite songs to help show your vision to a planner.

You want your photographer to capture your event perfectly. Ask a photographer for thoughts on your big day when interviewing them. Ask the photographer detailed questions about their work process and what a typical wedding is like for them to work. It’s essential that you know what they intend to do, so you can determine if it meshes well with your own plans.

Are you planning on inviting children to your wedding, and how many are there going to be? Many times you can save money by not inviting children to the wedding. However, there may be people who will not be able to attend unless they are allowed to bring their children.

Are you the groom? If so, buy a tux that fits you like a glove. Ask for friendly advice from other people before you make a decision on what tuxedo you want to get. Remember that people will be taking pictures, try to look your best.

Vows Yourself

You should definitely consider writing your wedding vows yourself. Though it might be simpler to copy another source, keep in mind that you know your fiance better than anyone else. You will become closer to your partner and make the day more romantic by writing the vows yourself. Your own words will be the words you remember throughout your life.

Make sure to do your research when it comes to hiring a wedding band or DJ. Require references before you hire them. Once you make a decision, you want to make sure the date is well known, and that a contract is signed to confirm the agreement. This will help ensure the music sets the mood.

With all that you have learned, you will be able to drift into that dream-like state where you recall the wedding you always thought of and make it happen. With proper planning, your big day can be relatively stress free and completely enjoyable for you and all of your guests.