Part 2: Words of Wisdom from a Past Bride

I know how you must feel planning this day that you want to be perfect. Perhaps you're stressed out over your budget, unhappy because people aren't RSVP'ing or booking their trips like they should before the deadline, or maybe you're panicking because you haven't heard back from your wedding coordinator in a few days -- or has it been a week? I get it, I was there. Wedding planning, while exhilarating and exciting, can be really, really hard.

So here are some tips from me (a past bride who went through it all, including the threat of borders closing because of the swine flu and drug cartels ) to help get you through this journey as a bride-to-be. (Click here to read Part 1).

1. Don't be Afraid to Ask for Help. I don't know what exactly happens when you put an engagement ring on your finger, but for some reason, it's like you gain super human powers to "do it all" on your own -- at least that's how I was. I assigned myself with the task of being a travel planner for my guests, making sure everyone had a good time while they were in Mexico, making sure I packed all of our suitcases -- we brought 15 pieces of luggage with us full of wedding stuff (yeah I was CRAZY!!!), and basically planning every little detail of my destination wedding (and yes, I even had a planner -- I know right? WTH? :wacko: ). And though I was doing all this while also working a full-time job and being a mom, I never really asked for help. And when people offered to help, I didn't take it. If I could go back in time and talk to the the bride that was me, I would scream "ASK FOR HELP AND TAKE IT WHEN IT'S OFFERED!" I cannot emphasize this enough, you do not have to Super Woman. The only responsibility you have is to be a bride, but don't let the stress of trying to make sure everything is perfect get to you. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Trust me, if there's one time when people are willing to help as much as they can, it's when you're donning that gorgeous white dress and getting married :rolleyes:

2) Don't Tie Your Heart/Mind to "Traditions." Wedding traditions can be beautiful things, but don't let them dominate your Wedding experience. It's OK if you decide you don't want to wear white on your Wedding Day, be bold and go for that blush toned gown that you look amazing in. Don't crumble if it starts to drizzle or rain on your Wedding Day. A little rain never hurt anyone and did you know some of the most epic wedding photos can be done on a rainy day? (Want to see proof? Click here.) Don't feel bad if your parents or in-laws frown upon you deciding to do a "First Look," even though you and your sweetheart really want to do one. A destination wedding is a unique experience all on its own and nothing has to be done in the typical wedding way when it comes to your Big Day. Cater your wedding to your exact wants, needs and desires as long as it's all within reason, and of course, in your means and budget. Make this day about you and the love of your life and celebrate accordingly even if it means coloring outside the lines

3) Have a Point Person on Your Wedding Day. This ties in a lot with Point #1 above. You should not be running around organizing things or trying to keep in sync with the timeline on your Wedding Day. Invest in a Day-Of Coordinator or ask someone in your circle who you know you can rely on to manage things behind the scenes and put out any fires and keep things in order on your Big Day. Come your Wedding Day, you should be completely focused on getting married to the one you love -- not worrying about why the flowers are late or where your ring bearer has put the ring. Turn to someone you can trust to handle things if any problems arise.

Don't forget to check back for Part 3 of Wisdom from a Past Bride! And click here to read Part 1.

- - -

About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world.