I have managed to check a few major things off my to-do list, like buying my wedding dress (!!!), but I still feel overwhelmed at times with how much I still have to do.
I thought I would share on the blog some important lessons I've learned thus far about being a bride and what this time is really all about. Of course, only being halfway through, I'm sure this is only the beginning of the lessons to be learned:
1. This is your day. I know you hear it all the time. "This day is all about the bride! This is her special day!"...but trust me, there will be times when some people around you tell you what colors you should have done instead, or that your favorite bridesmaid dress just isn't their preference, or they may not even like your wedding dress. I got some wonderful advice from my hairdresser recently when I expressed to her some frustration I was experiencing. I told her I felt like shouting, "Wait a second...I'm the bride! This is my day!". This is when she told me that sometimes you just have to smile and say, "That sounds good, but we're not doing that". And sometimes they won't listen, so you'll have to put your foot down. Be open to suggestions, but don't ever let anyone take the choices from you that are rightfully yours.
2. A beautiful wedding can be done with a low budget. Casey and I see no reason whatsoever to go in debt over our big day. There's always ways to save in every area. Get a talented, but up-and-coming photographer for a small fraction of what average brides spend. If you're crafty, take the time early to do some things yourself. Or, if you have a friends who are, get them to help! Consider bridal consignment shops or buying some things online. There are a million ways to save.
3. Don't feel like you have to have/do what other brides do. This one kind of goes with the previous one, because it will save you a ton of money. There are so many things that seem traditionally necessary that really aren't. To name some things: aisle runners, wedding favors, programs, etc. The list can really go on and on. Decide on what things are most important to you, and if you don't care much about it, don't have it.
4. Don't be afraid to change your mind. Just a couple of days ago, I made the decision to change my wedding colors. I was weary to make a seemingly grand change (it really wasn't that big of a deal...and I couldn't be happier!) since one of the questions I was asked most was regarding my wedding colors. The earlier you decide to change the better, but you will really regret it later if you don't change when you really wanted to. You may drive everyone involved around you crazy if you change too much, but don't be afraid to change your mind if you really feel that it is right. Follow your heart!
If you are not yet engaged or new to the wedding planning process, I hope these few pieces of advice will be a great help to you :) If you are already a bride, you already know what I'm talking about, and I'd love to get any more advice that you have to offer!
