First, Pick a Date

The primary considerations are the bride and groom’s schedules. Consider family conflicts, though. Check with family members to see if they are planning anything special in the month that you want to get married. If a sibling has a big event happening (MTC, Graduation, wedding, baby due) work around the date to simplify and avoid conflicts- scheduling and emotional! “Save the date” cards are a new idea and some have removable stickers to put on the calendar.

Second, Pick a Location

Call the temple to reserve a time for your wedding and reserve a place for your reception. If your chapel is booked you can choose a nearby one or your stake center. If you are using a local reception center then you definitely must make arrangements early on.

Third, Set a Budget

If you want to be married in a temple that is out of state, take into consideration the travel and expense involved for you and all family members who you expect to attend. Discuss all your plans for the wedding and reception at the beginning of the planning process so you can make appropriate decisions about everything you plan and purchase.

Fourth, Make a Plan

Even though it is an exciting time, it can also become hectic, if you let it. To prevent that from happening I would suggest the following ideas.

Keep it simple—from your wedding dress to decorations to food. Simple can be very elegant. If you want a more elaborate reception then you might want to hire a wedding coordinator to take some of the stress off your mom. Most LDS weddings are pretty much hands on for the bride and her family, from making wedding favors to even making your own cake and floral arrangements.

Make it yours—it’s your day. If you want paper lanterns or a garden theme or a fairy tale princess theme, be creative. You can do it on any budget.

Shop for dresses—your gown and bridesmaid dresses. Pick the colors for your wedding day. Don’t forget the groom and groomsman, tuxedos should be measured for about a month ahead.

Start a mailing list—don’t leave it all to your mother, she doesn’t know all your friends from high school. Invitation printing kits are available that can be done on the computer and look very classy. Use your imagination and design one that reflects your style. Send out invitations at least 3 to 4 weeks before the reception. Don’t forget to include temple sealing invitation cards for those who will be included in that part of the wedding.

Finalize all orders—for the cake, flowers, DJ, (he will need a song list) and photographer. Yes, it takes time to coordinate all of these things but in the long run, you will be sure that everything is exactly how you wanted it. Ask for help if it seems overwhelming. That’s what friends are for. A good way to keep track of everything is to keep a folder with all your contracts, and ideas, with receipts so that all your information is in one place.
Make a timeline—include all the wedding events for the wedding party and make copies for everyone so they will all be on the right schedule. Make contact people (not the bride or groom) and include cell numbers for emergencies. Include addresses of each site for out of town family members who may not know each location.

Get Your Recommends—this is the most important part of your plans. Take the Temple preparation classes, do your interviews with your Bishop and Stake president and get the marriage license.

Make honeymoon plans—this is the groom’s job, but make sure he’s got all the plans in place.

Enjoy your day—this is the day you’ve waited for your whole life. Savor the moments in the temple, with family and friends, and with your sweetheart. Don’t worry if some things go awry. Be grateful for whatever comes and be sure to thank all the people who have worked to make your wedding day wonderful.

For more help with wedding plans, call Arlene Bartlett of Forever Yours Wedding Décor and Design at 702-743-7008.