Keeping It All In Perspective

As the year comes to a close, another season coming to an end, I thought it would be fitting to list some of the things that don't matter as much; The details that don't define you as a bride, hostess, and most of all a person.

* Budget. Don't let the bottom line dictate how you feel about the outcome of your wedding, and definitely don't let it determine how you feel about yourself or your planning skills.

* Weight. Do not spend your entire engagement worrying about the size you feel you need to be on your wedding day. And most definitely do not buy a dress a size or two smaller because you feel it's the size you should have.

* Family Dynamics. Weddings are sometimes a little like winning the lottery: people may start coming out of the woodwork and issues you'd hoped were tucked away are suddenly out in the open. It can be a stressful and emotional time for everyone- from a mother watching her baby get married or a divided family coming together on common ground, to making decisions and just being on overload with everything that's going on. Pick your battles wisely, and be okay with letting the rest just fall into place.

* Your Best Friend's Party. This goes along with the budget issue a little bit, but don't worry about what your friend did for their wedding. This is your party, your celebration. If all you worry about is infusing your ceremony and reception with your personality and style, then you're already guaranteed to have a fabulous occasion your guests won't forget. Why? Because you'll have showcased you and your relationship, and you'll have told your personal love story. And no one can top that!

Keeping the big picture in perspective and the end result (you marrying the love of your life) in view will have you sleeping better at night and will make your planning process much less stressful.

~ Happy Planning!