You definitely make a check list and outline your budget. Follow these 10 steps too!

1. Imagine Your Dream Wedding

2. Putting Together Your Guest List

3. Your Budget: So take out that calculator, call up your folks and decide on a realistic budget. Before you start number crunching, set your priorities.

4. Start Your Planning Notebook
Also purchase a three ring binder, dividers and plastic business card holders to create a planning notebook. We suggest including the following sections: Vendor Contact Information, Guests List, Bridal Ensemble, Bridesmaids’ Attire, Beauty, Groomsmen’s Attire, Ceremony, Reception, Invitations and Stationery, Menus and Beverages, Flowers and Décor, Guest Favors and Gifts, Rentals, Music and Entertainment, Photo and Video, Transportation and Parking, Miscellaneous, Checklists and Schedules, Budget/Payment Schedules, Invoices/Receipts, Out-Of-Town Information and Notes. Don’t forget an empty folder for photos and magazine clippings. For more help getting organized, look over our perfect planning checklists.

5. Select Your Date
Decide what time of year you want to get married and select two tentative wedding dates — it’s important to have a backup in case your first choice isn’t available. Don’t forget to check your city calendar to make sure there’s not a holiday or major sporting event on your desired date – otherwise you and your guests may be competing with fans for scarce, or more expensive, hotel rooms and services.

6. Choose Your Ceremony & Reception Location
But remember, the best spot may be one that is nearby and can accommodate your guest count. You’ll want to find out how many events each site hosts per day, and whether there are hidden fees and charges.

7. Select Your Wedding Party
She’s been your best friend since kindergarten; it’s a no-brainer that you want her to stand up with you on your big day. But what about everybody else? Ask valued friends or family to do a reading, be an usher or oversee your guest book/escort card table. The point is, don’t worry, there is a role to play for everyone, and a way out of any awkward situation.

8. Shop For the Dress
Don’t forget to bring stockings, shoes, a strapless bra and a hair clip to your appointments. Also bring any tear sheets or printouts from our fashion section of those dresses you adore, so that the sales staff can get a sense of your style. And now’s the time to start a fitness program and get in shape to look your best in that dream dress.

9. Book the Basics
Top wedding locations and vendors are booked as much as a year in advance, so as soon as you’ve agreed on the type of wedding you would like to have, start booking! Reception sites go particularly fast, but many places will allow you to put a courtesy “pencil hold” on the date for two weeks with no deposit. Finding your ideal spot isn’t easy, so if a site meets 80% of your requirements, reserve it!

10. Set Up Your Registry
In this shopping frenzy, remember that your guests are going to want to buy presents for YOU. And, your guests will be thrilled to have one place where they can find all your gift choices. You can also create your own wedding website to share your engagement stories, last-minute wedding details and get the word out about your registry.

Get A Little Help From Your Friends
With all the excitement ahead of you, get advice from friends, websites, bridal blogs–there’s so much info out there!

hire a wedding planner

answer: Choose a Wedding Consultant!

1
Do your homework; find out how many consultants are in your area and what their services are.

2
After you find out the services of a wedding consultant, figure out that which you will need help.

3
Figure out your wedding budget.

4
Narrow down your search and call up to five wedding planners to determine their services and packages.

5
Book appointments with three wedding consultants and make a list of questions for your interviews.

6
Meet with the wedding consultant at her office or in a place that is relatively quiet and comfortable for both of you.

7
Do not bring children to your consultation as this is distracting to both the consultant and to you.

8
Ask questions about their experience, credentials, certifications, kick-backs from other vendors, etc.

9
Narrow down your quest to the top two and ask any questions that are still plaguing you via email or telephone.

10
Let your wedding planner know she has won your confidence by extending a courtesy call to her to let her know when you can come in and sign the contract.

11
Let the other candidates know via email or phone call, but also try to provide them with feedback as to why their services weren’t chosen.

12
Schedule your initial meeting with your wedding consultant and be prepared to enjoy your wedding experience.