Unique Wedding Planning

Is unique the word for your wedding? Most brides are not content with cookie-cutter weddings. They want to express their own individual style. Some get so caught up in the excitement that the event more resembles a Broadway production than a wedding celebration.
Even simple, cookie-cutter type weddings can cause stress. Adding challenges and details can cause a bride so much stress that she can't enjoy her wedding day. And, doesn't that defeat your purpose?
To help you reduce the stress of planning a unique wedding here are a few dos and don'ts:
Don't make plans for a lavish event if your fiancee wants a simple wedding, then browbeat him into supporting your efforts.
Do share your ideas, listen to his as well and make compromises.
Don't assume since it's your day that, only your opinions and feelings matter.
Do show consideration for friends and family members. Yes, even the mothers of the bride and groom.
Don't try to do everything yourself
Do ask others to share in the planning and work.
Do ask for advice, help and suggestions.
Don't underestimate the time, work and money involved.
Do count on everything taking twice as long and costing twice as much as you first estimated.
Don't base a style around hard-to find props or apparel. Example: don't plan a Hawaiian theme if you have no resources for leis, grass skirts or palm trees.
Do launch your style from a natural inspiration such as the style of your gown, location, time of year or family customs.
Don't get in over your head.
Do realize your limitations. Accept that you may not get everything exactly as you want it. Remember the point of the day is to get married, not launch the next Spielburg movie.
Don't burden yourself by trying to use your theme in every element.
Do incorporate a few unique ideas that reflect your style.
Don't try to impress anyone. This isn't the time to prove your mother was wrong or to out-do someone else's wedding.
Do remember the purpose of the wed ding is to make a solemn commitment and celebrate.
Don't impose on your guests. Brides have been known to request their guests come in costume, wear a certain color, travel great distances or devote full days to their weddings. As a result, the guests stayed away from the wedding.
Do respect your guests' needs and de sires.
Don't confuse your guests.
Do explain things to your guests. Let them know ahead of time what to expect, especially if you choose an un usual location. If you will include an unusual ethnic tradition, make a note of this in the wedding program.
Don't get lost in your theme.
Do choose a theme that reflects your personal style, talents and interests.