From trying your wedding dress at least once before the big day, to not letting the small stuff get to you, here are some tips on the 10 things you should take note of while planning for your wedding.

#1 ENJOY BEING ENGAGED

It’s supposed to be a joyous occasion, but you’ll find that not long after, it’s being overtaken by a flurry of wedding planning activity. Often overlooked for the actual wedding, the engagement period usually sees a lot of stress and bridezillas. Which shouldn’t happen. Get around it by scheduling regular date nights with your significant other (cut the wedding talk!) and enjoy this special time.

#2 PRIORITISING YOUR NEEDS AND WANTS

When you’re making your list of must-haves, you should note your priorities. For instance, if you’re intent on having good food, opt for smaller centrepieces, or recycle your aisle decorations. Or, if flowers are placed high on your list, skip the stationery such as save-the-dates, menu cards or escort cards.

#3 DO YOUR SUMS AND STICK TO IT

When you’re starting your research, here’re a few things to note: get your priorities right, set a date and budget, fix the number of guests you want, and move on from there. Plus, with local weddings, your banquet will make up the bulk of the cost. Then there are your gowns, suits, decorations, flowers and so on. Know what you’re working with, and think of ways to work around it.

#4 READ REVIEWS

Don’t be lazy, especially when it comes to reviewing your vendors. Reviews are a really important way of sifting through the good and bad. And, with the convenience of the Internet these days, there really is no excuse. Also, make sure your contracts are in order when you confirm a deal. If you’re having a wedding at a venue that doesn’t offer comprehensive packages, make sure you know what you’re getting, so you don’t get sticker shock.

#5 BE FIRM

It may be your wedding, but don’t be surprised if plenty of people have opinions about everything related to it. The solution? Take it kindly – he or she is only trying to help. And if someone’s getting a little insistent, don’t be rude about it. Simply say thanks and let him or her know you’ve got other ideas.

#6 PRUNE YOUR LIST

It may be tempting to invite everyone you know (including a great aunt whom you’ve never met), but remember this: the more people you ask, the higher your bill. Draw up a list of must-haves (A-lists), then the good to haves, (B-list) and go down the line. But be sure to send your A-lists out in good time to allow for your invites to the B-listers to get out on time without making them look like they’re fillers only

#7 TRY EVERYTHING ON AT LEAST ONCE

Your wedding dress, shoes (especially if they’re new), and other accessories you may be wearing. If you’re having a dress with a large skirt or a long train, practise walking in it a day or two before your wedding to make sure you know how to handle it. Similarly, if you’re having on a new pair of shoes, make sure it’s worn it properly, especially since you’ll be on your feet the entire day.

#8 BE PREPARED

Have an emergency kit – one that’s filled with essentials and items you may need. These include safety pins, bobby pins, blister plasters, plasters, stain remover stick, pads (if it’s coming soon), flat shoes, water, light bites, mobile charger and tissue paper. This list isn’t a comprehensive one, and you may choose to add more items. Just make sure you hand it to a bridesmaid or someone who’s going to be around you most of the time, so you’ll have it at hand should the situation calls for it.

#9 HAVE A DESIGNATED POINT OF CONTACT

When you’re a bride, chances are you’ll have a million and one things to do. Arrange for someone to take charge of certain things, like fielding guests’ queries and making sure the event runs on time – whether it’s a trusted friend or a day-of coordinator. It’ll help make your life so much easier.

#10 RELAX

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Most brides fuss on the teeniest details like whether the table linen will match their place cards, or some other minuscule detail. Newsflash: all that time you spent planning your wedding decor? you’ll hardly notice it when you’re walking down the aisle or getting busy with guests at the reception. Really.

About the writer:
Amanda Tan has written pieces for several publications, which include stories on food, lifestyle and beauty. She believes life is too short for regrets, and hopes to live in London (just for the experience). She is also a self-professed cake addict, and can never resist a slice, at any time of the day. If you’d like to share life hacks, travel tips and general advice, you can drop her a note at scented19@gmail.com.