Future Brides: Learn Your Wedding ABC's

Always remember to laugh, even when the pressure gets to you.

Be cost conscience when registering for wedding gifts. Not only will you get more, but your guests will be able to spend what they can afford.

Carefully smash the cake in your husband's face at the reception. Being too rough can look trashy!

Don't be afraid to have young children in the wedding party. They create the best wedding memories!

Envelopes: Having an inner envelope AND an outer envelope means extra postage!!! Check with your post office BEFORE you mail the invitations!

Favors can get expensive. In fact, most guests throw them away. Be creative and donate to a local charity in lieu of cheesy favors.

Good food, good music, good alcohol: the 3 things most guests remember about a wedding.

Have a good time on your special day: take a few moments to stand back and take it all in!

If your friends want to throw you a big bachelorette party, let them!

Jot down what each guest gave you as a gift. This will help when writing thank you notes (and for future weddings)!

Keep a to-do list at all times. There are so many appointments and phone calls that can't be missed!

Let your husband-to-be pick out his wedding band. After all, he's the one who has to wear it forever!

Marriage preparation classes (for some religions) must be done within 6 months of your wedding date. Don't forget to sign up!

Never choose the first location you see. It is best to see at least three venues before choosing.

Order your dresses at least six months in advance.

Pick close family and friends to be part of the wedding. Many couples look back on their special day and wonder "what she's up to these days".

Quickly send out those thank you cards.....the more you procrastinate the harder it is to get them done.

Review the names in your wedding party with your DJ before the announcements.

Simplicity can be more glamorous than an over-the-top wedding. Don't get carried away.

Taste testing dinner food can be frustrating...get everyone's opinions then you and your fiancee make the final decision.

Umbrellas: keep them in your limos! You never know when it may rain!

Vendors: Check references and other couple's reviews. Follow up with each vendor the week before the wedding.

When ordering invitations, be sure to order an extra 25 just in case!

Xpect at least 10% of your guest list to decline the invite.

Your dresses must be perfect. Don't hesitate to tell the seamstress if you're not happy with your dress (or your bridesmiad's dresses).

Zzz's: Get plenty of sleep the night before!

Now you know your Wedding ABC's. There are many informative websites to help plan a wedding. My favorite is www.theknot.com. From rings to buying your first home, this helpful site will keep you on your toes! Happy planning...