DO take advantage of Internet technology. Plan your wedding using search engines and e-mail to create your special celebration. There are several Internet sites dedicated to wedding planning that allow you to take advantage of the wealth of information at your fingertips.
DON'T seat older guests near the band or the speakers; it may be hard for them to hear anything else.
DON'T forget to pamper yourself. Treat your mom and maids the day before the wedding with an afternoon at the spa. You’ll have the time of your life enjoying facials, massages, manicures and pedicures. It will make you feel more relaxed and beautiful.
DO remember your guests with small children. Instead of putting “no children†or “ adults-only reception†on invitations, ask your reception site manager if there is a small room or play area near the festivities that you can rent. Then hire a professional babysitting service to take care of the kids. Parents will appreciate your consideration and be able to relax and enjoy your reception knowing they are close to their children.
DO contact the church or synagogue where you will perform your ceremony and ask about any rules or guidelines regarding music. Some churches require that you use their organist.
DO remember when purchasing a gown to be realistic about your expectations for losing weight. A gown can always be taken in-- rarely can it be let out without leaving stitch marks for all to see.
DON'T forget to involve stepparents in your ceremony in some way, perhaps a reading during your ceremony or an invocation before dinner.
DO consider table visits during your reception. It is a grand display of appreciation and respect when the bride and groom spend a few moments visiting their guests at each table.
DO consider a monogrammed piece of estate silver, such as a flask for the groomsmen or make-up compacts for the maids.
DO consider decorating chairs in a new way: black, silver, white and traditional gold. Transform an ordinary room or site into a ballroom. Chair covers completely change the look of your reception.